State Prison for DUI Crash with Multiple Victims

On April 23, 2025, in Tulare County Superior Court, the court sentenced Maxwell Barrios, age 28, of Tulare, to 4 years and 4 months in state prison for a 2023 DUI crash that caused serious injuries to two female victims.

Around 2:20 am on April 2, 2023, California Highway Patrol officers were called to a crash on southbound Hillman Street in Tulare where a red Honda HRV rear ended a Dodge truck at a high rate of speed, causing the truck to overturn and land back on its wheels. Officers contacted the Honda driver, Barrios, who slurred that he “pled the fifth” and to “just take me in.” During Barrios’ medical clearance, he offered the victims an apology and admitted that people told him not to drive drunk. Barrios’ toxicology reports indicated a BAC of .23% and the presence of Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

The victims were treated at a local hospital for massive injuries. One victim required a partial arm amputation and has undergone 10 surgeries with more scheduled, and the second victim required extensive surgery to her hand. Additionally, both victims suffered significant abrasions, as well as back and chest injuries.  

On the morning of the jury trial scheduled for February 25, 2025, Barrios pleaded guilty to all criminal charges filed against him: felony DUI causing injury, felony DUI with a BAC .08% or more, and felony driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The charges are enhanced by special allegations that the crime was violent, caused great bodily injury, and that the crime was committed against multiple victims. Barrios does not possess a prior criminal history.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Abigail Unruh and was investigated by the California Highway Patrol.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Communications Director Stuart Anderson (559) 636-5494