Derrick Simpson ID'd as Passenger Killed in Elk Grove DUI Crash on Highway 99 near Stockton Boulevard
Elk Grove, California (September 18, 2021) – Authorities have identified the passenger who died early Thursday morning in a wrong-way, head-on collision north of Elk Grove as Derrick Deion Simpson, 48.
The incident began about 2:40 a.m. Thursday, September 16, when Elk Grove police chased a stolen gold Honda Accord driven by Jacob McPherson, 34, who drove westbound on Calvine Road.
The chase was terminated when McPherson entered southbound lanes of Highway 99 and traveled in a northbound direction.
A short time later, the Accord collided head-on with a Honda Insight at the Stockton Boulevard on-ramp.
Deadly Wrong-Way Crash on Highway 99 in Elk Grove
Simpson, who was a passenger in the right front passenger seat of the Accord, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.
Authorities later determined that McPherson was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident. He faces charges of felony DUI causing death, gross vehicular manslaughter, felony evading, possession of the stolen property, and driving a stolen vehicle.
The crash remains under investigation.
Tips on What to do after a Car Accident in California
- Always stop and remain at the scene.
- Check if you or your passengers have been injured. In case someone is hurt, call emergency services or ask someone else to help.
- Get to safety – If your car is drivable, move it to a safe area. If it's not, turn your hazard lights on and set up flares.
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Never discuss or admit fault. Instead, wait for a police officer and insurance companies representatives to figure out the fault.
- Document the accident and exchange information with other drivers.