Tragedy struck Santa Barbara County over the weekend as a high-speed collision with a traffic pole resulted in the deaths of five teenagers, leaving one critically injured. Authorities suspect that the crash, which occurred in Santa Maria, may have been linked to driving under the influence.
The accident shattered the early Sunday morning silence with a loud crash that reverberated through the community. Although investigators are still piecing together the details of the incident, initial findings at the site indicate that alcohol might have played a role, according to Noozhawk.
“Our family’s sorrow is beyond words,” expressed Juana Galvez, whose 17-year-old daughter, Yusbeli ‘Ava’ Diaz—a student at Pioneer Valley High School—was among those who lost their lives in the crash.
Galvez shared on Facebook that Ava was rushed to the hospital, where she fought for her life for nearly an hour before passing away from her injuries.
Remembering her daughter, Galvez painted a picture of Ava as a warm-hearted and affectionate teenager who spread happiness to those around her.
“She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her,” the mother said..
Another teen killed in the wreck was identified in an online fundraiser as Isabella “Bella” Vigil, who was just 16.
“It is with shattered hearts that we share the tragic and unexpected loss of our beloved Bella, who passed away at just 16 years old following a horrific car accident,” wrote relative Angela Vigil in the fundraiser for the teen published Sunday.
Santa Maria school district spokesperson Kenny Klein confirmed that Ava was a student at Pioneer Valley High School, while another attended Santa Maria High School. A third student from the district was a former Pioneer Valley student who was enrolled in a continuation program, he said
Klein said none of the students killed were set to participate in high school graduation ceremonies that are be held in the district this week. Counseling services will remain available throughout the week, he added.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and school communities,” Klein said.
A fourth student who died in the crash attended Maple Continuation High School in the Lompoc Unified School District, school officials said.
Mourners gathered at a makeshift shrine at the site of the collision at the intersection of South Broadway and Miller Street.
Flowers, balloons, candles, and pictures formed a tribute to the dead teens arranged along a fence near the scene of the tragic accident. More photos and flowers were added to the shrine each day, according to KEYT.
A spokesman for the Santa Maria Police said officers are still investigating the deadly crash.