The crash happened just after 3 a.m. in the area of Divisidero Street and Houston Avene.
The Visalia Police Department says 23-year-old Isaiah Martinez hit 41-year-old Veronica Flores before crashing his vehicle into a light pole.
Flores was rushed to a local hospital, where she later died.
Police believe Martinez was driving under the influence of alcohol.
Officers detained and evaluated him at the scene before booking him into jail.
"As of now, the case will be forwarded to the Tulare County District Attorney's Office for appropriate chargers," said Liz Jones with the Visalia Police Department.
Authorities say the suspect does not have any prior DUIs.
This crash marks Visalia's first deadly DUI crash investigation this year.
The most recent data from UC Berkeley's Transportation Injury Mapping System shows more than 1,300 crashes involving alcohol and drugs across the Central Valley in 2022.
Jasmine Rivas with the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving points out these aren't just numbers, they are people's lives.
She says the data highlights the ongoing need for awareness and action.
"We educate as young as fourth grade, just talking about the life-threatening things that can happen to our youth when dealing with substances such as alcohol, cannabis, prescription, and medication," said Rivas.
"Giving them the tools and information that they need to make responsible choices."
The nonprofit offers free resources and services, walking victims through the court process as well.
On Friday, March 7th, a candlelight vigil will be hosted in Sanger to remember loved ones lost or injured by drunk drivers.
The candlelight vigil will start at 6 pm and the community is welcome to attend.
"Our hearts as a nation go out to those who have lost children who have lost their mothers, who have lost their fathers who have lost their spouses so early," Rivas said.
"Unexpectedly, I mean, this crime is preventable, and I just urge the community to again make a plan. So, you're not on either side of this tragedy."
As for Sunday's crash, police are still investigating and asking anyone with information to contact the department.
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