Irene Rodriguez, Visalia Woman, Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Riggin Avenue; Christina Torres Arrested

A 53-year-old Visalia woman, identified as Irene Rodriguez, was killed Saturday night after being ejected from an SUV in a suspected DUI crash on Riggin Avenue, according to the Visalia Police Department. The driver, 38-year-old Christina Torres, Rodriguez’s daughter-in-law, has been arrested and is facing vehicular manslaughter and DUI charges.

Police said officers responded to the crash at approximately 9:21 p.m. on Riggin Avenue west of Akers Street, where an SUV had collided with a telephone pole. Upon arrival, officers found Rodriguez unconscious in the roadway.

Victim Ejected From Vehicle

“Ms. Rodriguez had been ejected during the collision and was not wearing a seat belt,” said Liz Jones, spokesperson for the Visalia Police Department. “Officers immediately began life-saving measures, but unfortunately, she died at the scene.”

Torres, the sole remaining occupant of the vehicle, did not suffer injuries. Police said she showed signs of impairment and was taken into custody at the scene.

Investigation and Charges

Investigators believe the two women had just left a family party prior to the crash. Torres has since been charged with vehicular manslaughter and DUI, police said. The Tulare County District Attorney’s Office confirmed she is expected to appear in court later this week.

The woman killed in a suspected DUI crash in Visalia has been identified as 53-year-old Irene Rodriguez.

The Visalia Police Traffic Unit continues to investigate the crash. No other vehicles or injuries were involved.

Reminder Ahead of the Holidays

Loved ones of Rodriguez declined to speak publicly, describing the loss as especially painful with Christmas and New Year’s approaching.

“This is a very sad tragedy,” Jones said. “As we head into the holidays, we want to remind everyone to celebrate responsibly. If you’re going out, please have a plan to get home safely.”

Police reported investigating 151 DUI-related crashes in Visalia so far this year, compared to 159 last year, and urged drivers to use rideshare services, designate a sober driver, or call a friend.

Anyone with information related to the crash is asked to contact the Visalia Police Department at 559-713-4175 or 559-734-8116.