By Crash News Writer 
San Marcos, CA (August 24, 2025) – A 22-year-old man suffered life-threatening injuries on Wednesday afternoon following a head-on DUI collision on Cox Road in San Marcos, according to authorities.
According to reports, the crash occurred around 3:30 p.m. on August 20 near the intersection of Cox Road and Mulberry Drive. Investigators with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office say 42-year-old Manuel Leon Villanueva attempted to pass another vehicle by crossing into the oncoming traffic lane. At that moment, a 22-year-old man driving a Lexus sedan was approaching in the opposite direction.
Villanueva’s vehicle collided head-on with the Lexus, leaving the young driver critically injured. Emergency crews arrived and rushed him to a nearby hospital. Villanueva sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene before being arrested and booked into the Vista County Jail. He faces charges of reckless driving and DUI causing great bodily harm.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on official information from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office and may be updated as the investigation develops.
- The name of the 22-year-old injured driver has not been disclosed at this time.
- Authorities have confirmed Villanueva was driving under the influence and attempting a dangerous pass when the crash occurred. He was charged and taken into custody shortly after.
- Cox Road and Mulberry Drive were impacted during the investigation, and traffic may have been redirected as crews worked the scene.
To learn more about your rights after an injury crash, please view our frequently asked questions in California and explore accident resources in California for support with insurance claims, recovery options, and legal referrals.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.