By Crash News Writer 
Perris, CA (August 20, 2026) – A 24-year-old Moreno Valley woman was killed and another person was injured early Sunday in a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 215 in Perris. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Coroner identified the woman who died as Valerie Martinez.
According to the California Highway Patrol, officers were called to the northbound lanes of Interstate 215, north of Ramona Expressway, at approximately 12:20 a.m. on August 16. Investigators said a 2008 Mazda 3 was traveling at a high rate of speed when it lost control, left the roadway, and struck a guardrail in the center median.
The Mazda overturned onto its roof and came to rest in the leftmost travel lane. Authorities said a 2015 Ford Explorer then struck the overturned Mazda. During the crash sequence, Martinez was ejected from the Mazda and sustained fatal injuries.
Another occupant of the Mazda suffered moderate injuries. The two people traveling in the Ford Explorer were not injured. California Highway Patrol officials said alcohol was a factor in the crash. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by authorities and may be updated as the investigation develops. Readers seeking general information about accident claims and related issues can review frequently asked questions in California.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Coroner identified the deceased occupant as Valerie Martinez, 24, of Moreno Valley. The identities of the other people involved were not provided in the initial report.
Authorities reported that alcohol was a factor in the crash. Additional investigative findings may be released as officials continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Families and crash victims looking for additional information can review accident resources in California.
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.
Families affected by a fatal collision should consider calling an attorney as soon as possible to discuss applicable deadlines, evidence preservation, insurance matters, and their legal options. A California personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances and explain potential next steps.