Lompoc, CA – Three teenagers lost their lives and at least two people were seriously injured following a fatal crash on Highway 1 near Lompoc on Sunday afternoon, May 11, 2025. According to Santa Barbara County authorities, the multi-vehicle collision involved four cars and occurred near the San Julian Ranch, along the stretch between Lompoc and Gaviota.
Details of the Multi-Vehicle Collision
The crash occurred shortly after 6:00 p.m. on State Route 1. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2007 Toyota Yaris traveling southbound veered into the opposite lane and collided head-on with a 2024 Tesla Model 3. As a result of the impact:
- The Tesla struck a 2012 Audi Q5, which was also traveling south
- A 2002 Honda Accord in the same direction was then involved in the crash
Victims Identified
Tragically, all occupants of the Toyota Yaris died at the scene:
- Jake Curtis, 18, driver, from Goleta
- Michael Ochsner, 17, passenger
- Alexander Wood, 15, passenger, from Santa Barbara
All three were Dos Pueblos High School students and lifeguards for Santa Barbara County.
In the Tesla, Dr. Hafez Nasr (54) and Saghar Golpayegani (53), both of Lompoc, were seriously injured. Golpayegani was airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.
The drivers of the Audi Q5 (Luke Karmen, 16) and the Honda Accord (Daniel Switzer, 17), both students from South County, suffered minor injuries.
A Devastating Impact on the Community
“This was a tragic event. Local families have lost loved ones,” said Lieutenant Jason Bronson, commander of the CHP Buellton area. “We mourn with them and work daily to prevent losses like this in our communities.”
Highway 1 was temporarily closed in both directions while emergency crews responded and secured the area. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact CHP Buellton at (805) 691-6160.
How Can Ayuda California Help?
At Ayuda California, we are dedicated to supporting families facing the pain of losing a loved one in a traffic accident. Tragedies like this leave not only emotional scars but also serious legal and financial consequences that require immediate attention.
✔️ Free consultation to evaluate your case
✔️ Aggressive legal representation in wrongful death claims
✔️ Compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma
Get the medical care you need and the financial support you deserveIf you lost a loved one in a traffic accident in California, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to support you.
