Fatal Collision in Lompoc Valley
A tragic two-vehicle crash in the Lompoc Valley resulted in the death of an 85-year-old man and serious injuries to three others on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred at the intersection of Highway 1 and Santa Lucia Canyon Road, prompting a swift response from emergency personnel including the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol, and America Medical Response.
According to CHP Officer Michael Griffith, the deceased driver was identified as Larry Vanderhoofven of Lompoc. His passenger, Patsy Vanderhoofven, also of Lompoc, sustained major injuries and was transported to Marian Regional Medical Center. In the other vehicle involved, two Santa Maria residents, Ulises Sanchez, 33, and Severiano Avila, 21, suffered minor injuries and were treated at a local hospital.
The CHP reported that the collision occurred when Larry Vanderhoofven, driving a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, attempted to make a left turn onto Highway 1 from Santa Lucia Canyon Road. Sanchez, driving a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix southbound on Highway 1, collided with the Chevrolet within the fast lane.
The crash led to traffic disruptions on Highway 1 as authorities investigated and cleared the wreckage. While CHP officers from the Buellton area continue to investigate the circumstances, they have stated that alcohol and drugs do not appear to be contributing factors.
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