Joshua Adonai Manzanares, Johnny Ildefonzo Punzalan Dead after High-Speed Crash on Torrey Pines Road [San Diego, CA]

2 Dead, Multiple Hurt in Speeding Collision on North Torrey Pines Road

SAN DIEGO, CA (May 2, 2022) – Tuesday night, Joshua Adonai Manzanares and Johnny Ildefonzo Punzalan died in a high-speed crash.

The incident happened just before 11:00 p.m., on 13000 North Torrey Pines Road.

Manzanares and Punzalan were passengers inside a 2020 Subaru WRX that was traveling at a high rate of speed. Per reports, the driver lost control of the Subaru and hit the center median.

As a result, the Subaru crashed through the guardrail on the west side of North Torrey Pines Road. The car then went over the ledge, struck multiple rocks, and stopped on the sand at the beach.

Officers said four passengers between 18 and 19 years old were inside the Subaru. Due to the extent of injuries sustained, medics pronounced Manzanares and Punzalan, dead at the scene.

Meanwhile, paramedics transported two others to a nearby hospital.

Crews say the driver, 19-year-old Christopher Schmittel, suffered minor injuries. He was booked into Vista jail on two counts of murder, two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter, and felony DUI.

Sincere condolences to the loved ones of Joshua Adonai Manzanares and Johnny Adonai Manzanares. During this tough moment, our thoughts are with them.

The sudden loss of a loved one is an extremely difficult time for the surviving family. At Sweet James, we are here to provide you with unmatched legal representation during this trying time. We will fight to hold the responsible party accountable and help you receive compensation to pay for the high costs of the medical, funeral, and legal expenses. Call us today at (800) 975-3435. Need help after hours? Reach out to us by online chat, email, or text message. Moreover, if you are a family member of any of the victims involved in this accident, we may be able to help you obtain the police report. Click here to request a police report.