Kern County Judge Finds Sufficient Evidence in Fatal DUI Crash

Anabell Correa faces murder and DUI charges in deaths of married couple

Feb. 26, 2026 at 1:03am

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A Kern County judge has found sufficient evidence to move forward with charges against Anabell Correa, who is accused of driving under the influence and crashing into a rideshare vehicle, killing married couple Desiree and Max Mooney in March 2022. Correa faces 10 charges, including two counts of murder and several DUI-related offenses. The judge also found true several sentencing enhancements that could add time to Correa's potential sentence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of drunk driving and the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to deter such reckless behavior. The deaths of Desiree and Max Mooney have devastated their family and community, underscoring the urgent public safety concerns around impaired driving.

The details

According to court documents, on March 16, 2022, 21-year-old Anabell Aleyna Correa was the sole occupant and driver of a vehicle that crashed into a rideshare car, killing passengers Desiree and Max Mooney as they were returning home from a Saint Patrick's Day celebration. Correa admitted to drinking 'one twisted tea' and had a blood alcohol level of 0.088%. The crash occurred at the intersection of Stockdale Highway and Gosford Road, where Correa allegedly failed to stop for a red light. Correa did not have a valid driver's license at the time.

  • The fatal crash occurred on March 16, 2022.
  • Anabell Correa is due in court for arraignment on March 9, 2026.

The players

Anabell Aleyna Correa

A 21-year-old woman accused of driving under the influence and crashing into a rideshare vehicle, killing a married couple.

Desiree Mooney

One of the victims killed in the DUI crash.

Max Mooney

One of the victims killed in the DUI crash.

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What they’re saying

“I drank one twisted tea, bro.”

— Anabell Aleyna Correa

“I'm never seeing my kid, huh, just because I drove and drank one, two drinks.”

— Anabell Aleyna Correa

What’s next

Anabell Correa is due in court for arraignment on March 9, 2026.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to combat drunk driving and hold impaired drivers accountable for the devastating consequences of their actions. The loss of Desiree and Max Mooney has deeply affected their loved ones and the broader community, highlighting the importance of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and prevent such senseless deaths.