Man pleads not guilty to manslaughter, DUI in deadly I-805 crash

Markus Turner, a 27-year-old from San Diego, pleaded not guilty to felony charges, including manslaughter and DUI, following a deadly five-car crash on Interstate 805. The crash, which occurred around 9 a. m. Saturday, killed 65-year-old Grasiela Gomez, who was parked on the shoulder when her vehicle was struck. Prosecutors allege Turner was driving over 100 miles per hour while under the influence of marijuana and alcohol, with evidence indicating he smoked seven grams of marijuana before the incident.

He was already on probation for two misdemeanors at the time of the crash, prompting prosecutors to request an increase in bail to $5 million, citing a disregard for public safety. Turner’s bail was ultimately set at $500,000, with conditions prohibiting alcohol consumption and driving if released. Gomez's family expressed profound grief, especially her ex-husband, who shared the disbelief of her grandchildren over her death. The California Highway Patrol reported that Turner and two passengers, along with another driver, sustained injuries in the crash. Turner is scheduled to return to court on May 15, where further legal proceedings will unfold.