A tragic two-vehicle crash in Wildomar on November 24, 2025, has resulted in the death of 56-year-old Debra Amicay and the arrest of 33-year-old Erica Machuca of Hemet, according to officials from the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station. Deputies responded to the scene at approximately 9:06 p.m. near Clinton Keith Road and Palomar Street, where they found Amicay in the roadway with severe injuries. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Another driver was extricated from a vehicle and transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Sheriff’s Traffic Team Assumes Investigation
The Lake Elsinore Station’s Traffic Team arrived to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the deadly collision. Based on their initial findings, deputies determined that Erica Machuca was allegedly driving under the influence at the time of the crash.
Machuca was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center on suspicion of driving under the influence causing injury and the murder of Debra Amicay. Authorities emphasized that the case remains active and ongoing, and additional details will be released as the investigation develops.
A Community Shaken by a Preventable Loss
The sudden passing of Debra Amicay has left family, friends, and the local community heartbroken. What began as an ordinary evening quickly turned into a devastating tragedy that claimed a life and seriously injured another driver. Loved ones are now left grappling with an unimaginable loss, while investigators work to uncover the full sequence of events that unfolded that night.
The condition of the critically injured driver has not yet been updated publicly.
Authorities Seeking Witnesses
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have been in the area or who witnessed the collision to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in gathering additional information or any potential video evidence that could help clarify how the crash occurred.
Witnesses are encouraged to contact Deputy Keyser at 951-245-3000 or the Riverside Sheriff’s Dispatch at 951-776-1099.
As the investigation continues, many are mourning the loss of Debra Amicay, whose life was cut tragically short. May her memory be honored, and may her loved ones find strength during this heartbreaking time.
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