REDDING, CA — June 17, 2025 | DUI Driver Crashes Into Liquor Store, Injuring One
REDDING, CA — A routine afternoon in Redding took a dangerous turn on Tuesday when a suspected drunk driver plowed into a liquor store, leaving one person injured and a community rattled. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM in the 2500 block of Victor Avenue, prompting an urgent response from the Redding Police Department.
According to RPD’s official report, 61-year-old Diana Merical was the sole occupant and operator of the vehicle involved in the collision. Merical’s car crashed directly into the front of the liquor store, shattering glass, damaging merchandise, and causing structural damage to the building.
One individual inside the store, identified as Michael Grant, 47, was injured in the incident. Grant, who had been browsing near the front entrance when the crash occurred, was struck by debris and suffered minor injuries. Emergency medical personnel responded quickly, assessing and treating Grant at the scene. Fortunately, his injuries were not life-threatening.
DUI Arrest and Investigation
Responding officers observed clear signs of impairment from Merical and conducted a field sobriety evaluation. Based on their findings, she was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence causing injury — a felony offense under California law.
Merical was transported to the Shasta County Jail, where she was formally booked for the offense. Police have not yet released her blood alcohol content (BAC), and it remains unclear whether additional substances may have played a role.
The Redding Police Department’s Field Operations division is handling the investigation. The case was authored by Corporal Mike Caldwell and reviewed by Sergeant Travis Braud under RPD Case No. 25-007001.
Community Response and Business Impact
The liquor store, which has served the Victor Avenue neighborhood for years, was forced to close temporarily to assess and repair the damage. Store staff and bystanders described the moment of impact as “sudden and terrifying.”
“I was standing near the counter when I heard a loud crash,” said a store employee who wished to remain anonymous. “Glass flew everywhere. We didn’t know what happened until we saw the car halfway inside the store.”
The incident has reignited concerns in the Redding community about impaired driving, especially in commercial areas where pedestrian and vehicle traffic overlap. Neighbors and business owners expressed frustration and concern over how easily lives can be put in danger by the reckless decision to drive under the influence.
A Reminder of DUI Dangers
The Redding Police Department is urging all residents to think twice before getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs.
“Driving under the influence is not just a personal risk — it endangers everyone around you,” said an RPD spokesperson. “We’re grateful that this incident didn’t result in more serious injuries or fatalities. But it’s a stark reminder of how quickly impaired driving can cause real harm.”
Contact Information
Citizens with additional information related to the crash or similar incidents are encouraged to contact the Redding Police Department:
- Redding Police Department – Field Operations
- Case Number: 25-007001
- Phone: (530) 225-4200
- Authored By: Corporal Mike Caldwell
- Reviewed By: Sergeant Travis Braud
As the investigation continues, updates may be released regarding Merical’s arraignment and any further developments in the case.
The Redding community remains on alert, with renewed calls for awareness and action to prevent future DUI tragedies.
