Driver accused of wrong-way crash on Highway 85 that killed mother and son in court

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA. – He is accused of driving the wrong way on Highway 85 and killing a mother and her son. Duncan McQuarrie was arraigned on Friday.

After his release from hospital, McQuarrie was eventually taken to prison and appeared in court for the first time in a wheelchair.

“We charged the defendant with murder because he showed reckless disregard for human life,” said Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen.

It happened on August 26. Authorities believe McQuarrie was drunk when he drove his rented pickup truck the wrong way on Highway 85. He eventually crashed head-on into a Tesla, killing Rebecca Olsen and her 14-year-old son Charlie.

“Given the fact that he was driving 80 to 100 miles per hour in the wrong direction, in the middle of the day, for miles, this is criminally reckless behavior,” Rosen said.

According to court documents, McQuarrie, a Florida native, had previous convictions for drunken driving in 2013 and 2021. Authorities said he was convicted of drug possession in 2021 and 2022.

On the day of the accident, McQuarrie is said to have behaved erratically and even stopped the truck once to get out.

“He crossed the median barrier to the other side of the highway and waved to passing motorists before getting back in his vehicle and driving away,” said Michael Gadeberg, deputy district attorney.

According to authorities, McQuarrie not only took two lives but also put numerous others in danger.

“From what we’ve seen so far, there have definitely been a number of near misses,” says Gadeberg.

Cameron Olsen, Charlie's father, did not want to appear in court. But he sent photos of Charlie and Rebecca. He says they were adventurous and traveled to 33 countries on seven continents. He says he is proud and heartbroken at the same time.

DA Jeff Rosen read a few words on his behalf: “If you are a parent, give your children a very special hug from me today.”

McQuarrie is being held without bail. His next court date is scheduled for November 7.