Passenger Nicole Biihler Killed in DUI Crash on River Road [Monterey County, CA]

Monterey County, CA (January 21, 2026) – Nicole Biihler, 23, from Seaside, was killed, while a 2-year-old boy, also from Seaside, was injured following a DUI crash on River Road early Monday evening.

It was around 5:30 p.m. on January 19 when the deadly solo-vehicle crash happened north of Gonzales River Road.

Investigators determined that white Nissan SUV driven by 23-year-old Aja Hill of Seaside, was northbound on River Road with Nicole Biihler and a 2-year-old boy as passengers.

Officers said that due to the driver’s intoxication, the vehicle left the road, crashed into a power pole, and rolled over.

Biihler was rushed to Natividad Medical Center and was later declared deceased. Troopers said she was not wearing a seatbelt and was thrown from the vehicle.

The little boy was also transported with unknown injuries.

Emergency rescuers rushed Hill to Natividad Medical Center with serious injuries.

Hill was later booked into the Monterey County Jail on multiple charges, including DUI involving alcohol causing bodily injury, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher causing bodily injury, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, and child abuse with the potential for great bodily injury or death. Her bail was set at $50,000.

Moreover, the authorities are asking anyone who may have details on this collision to contact the Monterey Area CHP office at 831-770-8000 or email MontereyCHPTips@chp.ca.gov.

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Sweet Lawyers extend their heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Nicole Biihler. Our thoughts are with the bereaved during this difficult time.

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