Berkeley Woman, 80, Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Highway 24 in Oakland
An 80-year-old Berkeley woman driving a Honda sedan was killed in a crash with a Toyota Camry at about 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, on westbound Highway 24 just east of the 27th Street exit in Oakland, where the freeway becomes Interstate 980. CHP arrested the Camry driver on suspicion of DUI.
Incident Summary
Crash Area
A Honda Driver Died at the Scene
The California Highway Patrol said a Honda sedan and a Toyota Camry crashed at about 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, on westbound Highway 24 just east of the 27th Street exit in Oakland, where the freeway transitions into Interstate 980. The driver of the Honda died at the scene.
Authorities identified her as Saraswathi Devi, 80, of Berkeley.
The Other Driver Was Arrested on Suspicion of DUI
CHP officers arrested the driver of the Toyota Camry on suspicion of felony driving under the influence. The Camry driver had minor injuries, and CHP had not released that driver's name. An arrest is not a conviction, and the driver is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Three westbound lanes were closed for about four hours while officers investigated. CHP has not released details about how the crash happened.
What Families Should Know
When a driver is arrested for suspected DUI after a fatal crash, there is usually a criminal case and, separately, a possible wrongful death claim by the family. The civil claim does not depend on the outcome of the criminal case and has its own deadlines. Families can ask for the CHP report and should keep any medical and funeral records.
This article does not make any finding about fault.
Our thoughts are with Ms. Devi's family and loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
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