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NewsNBC Bay Area — South BayJuly 17, 2026Santa Clara

Driver charged with murder in fatal San Jose highway crash

A 31-year-old San Jose man has been charged with two counts of murder following a high-speed crash on Highway 87 that killed a mother and her toddler. Prosecutors allege the driver was traveling at speeds exceeding 140 mph before striking a stopped vehicle.

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Why It Matters

The case establishes a legal precedent in Santa Clara County where extreme speeding is being prosecuted as murder, carrying significant implications for how vehicular manslaughter and homicide are charged in the region.

Key Facts

  • Zachary Chernicky is charged with two counts of murder.
  • The crash occurred on Dec. 2, 2025, on northbound Highway 87 near Curtner Avenue.
  • The defendant was driving a Tesla at 142 mph 15 seconds before the crash.
  • The defendant was driving 126 mph five seconds before impact.
  • The defendant was driving 102 mph at the moment of impact.
  • The victims, Ivana Balistreri (30) and her daughter Lilliana (2), died in the collision.
  • The defendant is being held in jail without bail.
  • The defendant's next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 25.

Who's Mentioned

personJeff Rosen“Santa Clara County District Attorney.”personZachary Chernicky“The defendant charged with two counts of murder.”organizationSanta Clara County District Attorney’s Office“The office prosecuting the case.”locationCurtner Avenue“Near the location of the crash.”personIvana Balistreri“Victim of the crash.”locationHighway 87“Location of the crash.”personLilliana“Victim of the crash, daughter of Ivana Balistreri.”