Tragic Drunk Driving Incident Claims Life of Motorcyclist in Mission Viejo

News Summary

A fatal collision involving a motorcyclist and a vehicle in Mission Viejo has left one person dead. The incident occurred due to suspected drunk driving, leading to the arrest of the driver. The victim, a well-known community member, leaves behind three children and a grieving partner who has started a GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses. The investigation into the circumstances of the accident is ongoing, and the community is rallying around the family during this difficult time.

Mission Viejo

A drunk driving incident in Mission Viejo resulted in the tragic death of a motorcyclist on Tuesday, June 24, at approximately 8:22 p.m. The collision occurred at the intersection of Trabuco Road and Via Victoria, where 32-year-old Anthony Balsamo lost his life after being struck by a vehicle driven by 62-year-old Deborah Webb.

Balsamo was immediately transported to a local hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Webb was arrested on the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence and has since been booked into the Orange County Jail for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The investigation into the circumstances of the collision is being carried out by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT).

Authorities encourage anyone with additional information regarding the incident to reach out to MAIT at (949) 425-1860. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at (855) TIP-OCCS or via their official website.

Details of the Incident

On the night of the incident, Balsamo was riding his motorcycle home after celebrating his anniversary with his partner, Briahna Gubler. She was following him in a separate vehicle when the collision occurred. Balsamo leaves behind three children: his own biological son and two children from Gubler. This tragic event has left a profound impact on their family, as Gubler has recounted the emotional and financial toll the incident has taken.

In the aftermath, Gubler has created a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for their family, as Balsamo was the main financial provider. She has had to break the heartbreaking news of his death to their children, creating an overwhelming atmosphere of grief and loss.

Community Response

Anthony Balsamo was well-regarded in his community, known for his kindness and adventurous spirit. Friends and family have begun to share memories and tributes, reflecting on his dedication to both his family and those around him. The loss of a loving parent and partner has left his family in a state of shock and mourning.

The ongoing investigation by the Major Accident Investigation Team is crucial in determining the specifics surrounding the collision and how it could have been prevented. As part of the investigation, authorities are working diligently to piece together all available evidence, hoping to bring clarity to the family and community affected by this tragedy.

As the days pass, support for Gubler and her children continues to grow, with the community rallying around them during this challenging time. The hope is that through shared memories and support, Balsamo’s legacy of kindness and adventure will live on even as his family navigates the difficult path ahead.

Note: All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Mission Viejo Woman Arrested in Fatal Motorcycle Collision
Orange County Sees Surge in DUI and Drug-Related Arrests
California Proposes Bill to Revive Nightlife with Hospitality Zones
Tustin’s Road Safety in Trouble: A Grim Look at Recent Tragedies

Additional Resources

• OC Register: Driver Accused of Manslaughter
• NBC Los Angeles: DUI Crash in Mission Viejo
• Patch: DUI Suspected in Fatal Crash
• CBS News: Family Demands Justice
• Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
• Google Search: Mission Viejo DUI accidents