Fatal Crash on Loop 375 in El Paso: Intoxication Manslaughter Charges Filed

The El Paso Police Department’s Special Traffic Investigations Unit is actively probing a tragic collision that claimed a life and left others injured on Loop 375 East Exit 49 (Zaragoza).

Early inquiries indicate that the incident involved two vehicles. A 2020 Chevy Sonic, driven by Cassandra Yolanda Hernandez, was reportedly traveling at high speed eastbound behind a 2017 Chevy Tahoe, operated by Dulce Rivera Soriano. Tragically, the Chevy Sonic collided with the rear of the Chevy Tahoe, causing the Tahoe to veer into the right-hand guardrail, overturn, and ultimately collide with a substantial metal support pole.

Occupants of the Chevy Tahoe included two passengers, Alondra Soriano Rojas and Paloma Soriano. Regrettably, Alondra Soriano Rojas lost her life at the scene, while both the driver and the other passenger sustained minor injuries and were transported to Del Sol Hospital for medical care.

The collision had a cascading effect, leading to the Chevy Sonic spinning out and subsequently catching fire. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers suspected that the operator of the Chevy Sonic, Cassandra Yolanda Hernandez, was under the influence. As a result, Hernandez was arrested and charged with Intoxication Manslaughter. She was later booked into the El Paso County Jail under a bond set at $250,000 cash and $1,000 personal recognizance.

Both alcohol consumption and excessive speed are believed to have played contributing roles in the tragic crash. This unfortunate event marks the 52nd traffic-related fatality in El Paso this year, representing an increase from the 46 fatalities recorded at the same point last year. The El Paso Police Department seizes this opportunity to remind all motorists to adhere to traffic regulations, exercise responsible driving behavior, and avoid operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or other impairing substances.