Nicole Ruddy and Her Unborn Child Killed in DUI Crash on Highway 395 [Hesperia, CA]

Drunk Driver Causes Crash on Highway 395 in Hesperia Killing Woman and Her Unborn Child

 
HESPERIA, CA (January 25, 2023) – Nicole Ruddy and her unborn child were killed after a suspected drunk driver crashed into their vehicle head-on in Hesperia on Saturday.
 
The fatal crash happened around 11:40 p.m. on January 21, along Highway 395 north of Poplar Street. According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, 43-year-old Eddie Escobedo of Hesperia was driving a black 2020 Ford Explorer north on the highway. At the same time, 36-year-old Andrew Ruddy of Orange was driving a 2018 Toyota Corolla south.
 
Andrew’s wife, Nicole, was 35 weeks pregnant and sitting in the front passenger seat of the Corolla.
 
Escobedo drove the Explorer into oncoming lanes of traffic in front of the Corolla, causing a head-on collision.
 
First responders rushed Nicole and her unborn child to a local trauma center. Despite lifesaving measures, they were pronounced dead. Nicole was 33 years old.
 
Meanwhile, Andrew and Escobedo both suffered major injuries.
 
Police later arrested and booked Escobedo at the West Valley Detention Center on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
 
Escobedo remains in custody on $100,000 bail.
 
An investigation is underway. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Hesperia Police Station at 760-947-1500.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Nicole Ruddy and her unborn child.

Losing a loved one in a car accident caused by a drunk driver is extremely painful. The Law Offices of Daniel Kim exists to help surviving family members pursue a wrongful death claim. Let our top-rated litigators help you get the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve. We will work with you personally to better understand your needs and situation. For a free consultation, please call us at (800) 895-7199. Our team can also help you request a copy of the police report from your loved one’s accident.