CHP Issues 8,000 Citations, Reports Six Fatal Crashes Over Halloween Weekend

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported six fatal crashes and more than 8,000 enforcement actions across the state over the Halloween weekend, marking the first time the holiday was designated as a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).

In a social media post on November 4, 2025, the CHP said that officers recorded 8,029 total enforcement actions, and 503 driving under influence (DUI) arrests during the 12-hour operation conducted from 6 p.m. on October 31, 2025, to 6 a.m. on November 1, 2025. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by CHP Central Division (@chp_centraldivision)

The CHP also reported 1,943 speeding citations during the MEP, including 96 for speeds exceeding 100 mph. 

The agency said all available personnel, across all ranks, worked through the night to ensure citizens’ safety. 

The CHP appreciated everyone who celebrated the holiday responsibly. 

“Your decisions behind the wheel make a difference for every family on the road,” it said. 

The CHP launched the enforcement on Halloween to protect motorists and prevent impaired driving, the agency said in an earlier statement. 

Impaired driving destroys lives, and even a single loss is one loss too many, said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. 

“This Halloween, we’re asking everyone to do their part before the festivities begin, arrange a sober ride, and help us keep California’s roads safe for everyone who uses them,” Duryee said. 

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both can be dangerous. On average, more than 800 fatal crashes involving impaired driving claim the lives of over 900 people in California annually, the CHP noted.

Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and cannabis products can also impact a driver’s ability to drive safely, the CHP said. 

During the 12-hour Halloween MEP in 2024, the CHP said officers investigated around 500 crashes across California. Of these, roughly 90 involved impaired drivers, resulting in two deaths and more than 60 injuries. 

CHP officers also reported nearly 120 DUI arrests during last year’s Halloween MEP. 

Penalties for DUI

• Suspension of the driver’s license
• Fines
• Compulsory DUI education programs
• Jail time

Tips to Stay Safe

To ensure everyone drives safely, the CHP urges motorists to: 

• Have a designated driver or a sober driver.
• Use ride-sharing services, like taxis, or public transportation.
• Never ride with an impaired driver or drive under the influence. Call 911 if someone appears to be driving impaired. 

Duryee noted that whether it is the holiday season or any other time of the year, driving sober can save lives.

“Together, we can make our roads safer and prevent tragedies before they happen,” he added.