Fatal Crash in Stanton Linked to Suspected DUI Driver

News Summary

A tragic accident in Stanton, California, resulted in the death of 55-year-old Hoanh Thanh Ngo after a suspected DUI driver crashed into his Toyota van. The driver of the other vehicle, 30-year-old James Anthony Deleon, fled but was apprehended by law enforcement. Deleon faces charges including murder and DUI causing injury. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about DUI-related accidents in Orange County. The authorities are investigating and urging anyone with information to come forward.

Stanton, California – A man was fatally injured in a crash involving a suspected DUI driver in Stanton, Orange County, late on April 2, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 11 p.m. at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Pacific Avenue.

The collision involved a Dodge sedan and a Toyota van. The severity of the crash was underscored by the impact that pushed both vehicles into an unoccupied parked vehicle situated nearby. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, where the driver of the Toyota van, identified as 55-year-old Hoanh Thanh Ngo of Stanton, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The driver of the Dodge sedan, a 30-year-old resident of Irvine named James Anthony Deleon, fled the scene on foot immediately following the crash. However, law enforcement officers located Deleon shortly after his escape and took him into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). Authorities have also noted that Deleon has a prior conviction related to DUI offenses.

Deleon has since been booked into the Orange County Jail, facing serious charges that include murder and DUI causing injury. In addition to Ngo’s death, one other person was transported to a local hospital with unspecified injuries resulting from the crash, although it remains unclear whether this individual was linked to the suspect.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. As part of their investigation, authorities reported that one of the vehicles involved caught fire, and firefighters were required to extinguish the flames.

Officials are urging anyone with information pertaining to the crash to reach out to the OCSD’s Traffic Bureau at 949-425-1860. Anonymity is preserved for those who choose to submit tips via Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

This tragic incident underscores the continuing issue of DUI-related accidents in Orange County and prompts renewed discussions about road safety and the risks associated with impaired driving.

The impact of such incidents extends beyond immediate physical harm, affecting families and communities as they grapple with the loss and consequences stemming from impaired decisions made behind the wheel. With ongoing investigations, authorities hope to prevent future tragedies by raising awareness and seeking cooperation from the public.

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