DUI Driver Sentenced to 25 Years in Deadly Bradenton Crash That Killed Mother of Two
A Manatee County man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison following a high-speed crash that claimed the life of a 37-year-old mother of two in 2024.
Cesar Navarrete, 27, was sentenced Thursday afternoon after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter. The sentence also includes 10 years of supervised release following his prison term, as well as permanent revocation of his driver’s license and $40,000 in fines and restitution.
The crash occurred the night of November 2, 2024, along Cortez Road near 43rd Street West. Investigators determined Navarrete was traveling approximately 115 miles per hour when he slammed into a Chevrolet Equinox, splitting the vehicle in half from the force of the impact.
Sara-Danielle Holmes, who was in the passenger seat of the SUV, died as a result of the crash. She leaves behind two young children. The driver of the vehicle, identified as her boyfriend, survived.
Navarrete and his passenger both sustained serious injuries and were transported to a hospital. Authorities said Navarrete showed clear signs of impairment at the scene. A subsequent investigation revealed his blood alcohol concentration was .165, more than twice the legal limit.
Records show Navarrete had a prior DUI conviction and was driving on a suspended license at the time of the crash.
Traffic Homicide Investigators arrested Navarrete on charges including vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, DUI causing property damage and/or personal injury, and driving with a suspended or revoked license causing serious bodily injury or death.
The case was prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office for the 12th Judicial Circuit. Officials said the sentence reflects the severity of the crash and the lasting impact on the victim’s family and the community.
