Novato Woman Faces Possible Murder Charge After Deadly DUI Crash

Kenia Marcela Alegria had a prior DUI conviction before the fatal accident on Highway 101 near Petaluma.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 4:23pm

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A 41-year-old Novato woman is facing a possible murder charge following a high-speed DUI crash on Highway 101 that turned deadly last week near Petaluma. Kenia Marcela Alegria was driving on a wet road when her vehicle overturned, killing 61-year-old Teresa Renderos and seriously injuring another passenger. Because Alegria has a prior DUI conviction, investigators are now recommending a murder charge in addition to the felony DUI.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of repeat drunk driving and the challenges law enforcement faces in holding repeat offenders accountable. It also raises questions about sentencing guidelines and whether tougher penalties for prior DUI convictions could help prevent such fatal crashes.

The details

According to the California Highway Patrol, Kenia Marcela Alegria was driving at a high rate of speed on a wet Highway 101 near Petaluma when she lost control of her vehicle, causing it to overturn. The crash killed 61-year-old passenger Teresa Renderos and seriously injured another passenger. Investigators determined that Alegria had a prior DUI conviction, leading them to recommend a murder charge in addition to the felony DUI.

  • The deadly crash occurred on February 13, 2026 near Petaluma, California.

The players

Kenia Marcela Alegria

A 41-year-old woman from Novato, California who is facing a possible murder charge in addition to a felony DUI after a deadly crash on Highway 101.

Teresa Renderos

A 61-year-old passenger who was killed in the crash caused by Kenia Marcela Alegria.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold repeat drunk drivers accountable to the fullest extent of the law to prevent such senseless tragedies.”

— Robert Jenkins, Petaluma Resident

What’s next

Investigators will present their findings to the Sonoma County District Attorney's office, which will determine whether to file a murder charge against Kenia Marcela Alegria in addition to the felony DUI.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for tougher penalties and better rehabilitation programs to address the public safety threat posed by repeat drunk drivers, who continue to put innocent lives at risk on our roads.