Driver Killed In Crash East Of Temecula Was Not Wearing Seatbelt, And Was DUI: CHP

HAPPY VALLEY, CA — A suspected DUI driver who was not wearing a seatbelt was killed early Monday morning when he lost control of his car and overturned on state Route 371, just east of Temecula, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The man, whose identity was not released pending notification of next of kin, was driving south on SR-371, just north of Happy Valley Road in Aguanga, in a 2000 Toyota Camry.

For reasons still under investigation, the driver lost control of the vehicle, crashed into a hillside, and overturned, according to the CHP.

When first responders reached the solo-vehicle crash site, they found the car overturned in the roadway and the driver ejected. He was pronounced dead at the scene, the CHP reported.

"The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle," according to the CHP. "Alcohol is suspected to have contributed to this traffic collision."

No other injuries were reported.

Both directions of SR-371 were closed for approximately two hours during a crash investigation by the CHP, Temecula Area office.

CHP Officer Mike Lassig reminded motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence and not wearing a seatbelt.

"Seatbelts can save lives and prevent injuries," he said.