Dana Point Crash Spurs Teen Driver Safety Debate

A single-vehicle crash just before noon on Tuesday near Dana Point Harbor Drive and Island Way involved six Dana Hills High School students traveling in a pickup truck. The 16-year-old driver, Rebecca Cespedes, died at the scene, while the five other teens were hospitalized—three in critical condition but expected to survive, and two with minor injuries. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash, including whether drugs, alcohol, or speed played a role. The Dana Hills High School community is in mourning, with counseling and support services offered to students and staff, and a memorial established at the site. Witnesses described bystanders comforting the victims until emergency responders arrived. The incident has shaken local families and reignited conversations about young driver safety.