by Winston-Salem, NC — A 19-year-old woman tragically lost her life early Sunday morning after her SUV veered off the road and struck a tree along Bowen Boulevard, authorities confirmed.
Early Morning Crash Ends in Fatality
At approximately 6:31 a.m., officers with the Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD) responded to a single-vehicle crash in the 2100 block of Bowen Boulevard. Upon arrival, they discovered a severely damaged 2007 Jeep that had collided with a tree on the right shoulder of the roadway.
The driver, identified as Beatriz Penaloza Calleja, was the sole occupant of the vehicle. She was headed southbound when her car left the roadway, striking the tree with enough force to cause fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
Investigation Underway by Traffic Enforcement Unit
The WSPD Traffic Enforcement Unit has taken over the investigation. As of now, the cause of the crash remains unknown. Investigators have not determined whether speed, distraction, road conditions, or impairment were factors.
“No other vehicles were involved, and no witnesses have come forward yet,” authorities noted. Additional updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
A Pattern of Deadly Road Incidents
This incident adds to a concerning trend in the region. Single-vehicle crashes remain one of the most common types of fatal collisions, particularly among young drivers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that teens aged 16–19 are nearly three times more likely than drivers aged 20 or older to be involved in a fatal crash.
Bowen Boulevard, a residential and mixed-traffic corridor, has seen increased vehicle activity in recent years. While it’s not currently labeled a high-crash zone, local officials have received past community concerns regarding speeding and lack of lighting in some areas.
Safety Tips for Teen Drivers and Families
Law enforcement agencies and safety advocates urge families to discuss driving safety with teens, especially those who have recently received their licenses. Recommendations include:
- Avoid distracted driving — no texting, calling, or adjusting GPS while moving.
- Observe speed limits, particularly on residential or narrow roads.
- Never drive while drowsy or impaired — even slight fatigue can delay reaction times.
- Always wear a seatbelt, even for short trips.
- Maintain your vehicle, including tire pressure, brakes, and headlights.
- Be extra cautious during early morning or late-night hours, when visibility and alertness may be reduced.
Parents are encouraged to model safe behavior and consider enrolling teens in defensive driving programs, which can lower crash risk and insurance costs.
Community Remembers a Life Lost
Though few details have been released publicly, news of Calleja’s passing has already sparked grief in the local community. Friends and acquaintances have begun posting condolences online, remembering her as a “bright and kind” young woman with her future ahead of her.
What road safety issues concern you most in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
