Jesus Mata-Garcia Killed, Eribertha Martinez-Amado, Wendi Pacheco-Lopez Injured in DUI 3-Car Accident on Highway 166 [Santa Maria, CA]

Jesus Mata-Garcia Dies, Eribertha Martinez-Amado, Wendi Pacheco-Lopez Hurt in 3-Car Crash on Highway 166 near Hanson Way

 
SANTA MARIA, CA (September 11, 2024) — Jesus Mata-Garcia died in a DUI 3-car accident Saturday night on Highway 166 near Hanson Way.
 
According to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, the multi-car crash happened around 11:10 p.m. While 21-year-old Jesus Antonio Mata-Garcia entered the turn lane to overtake slower traffic, his eastbound Nissan Kick struck a westbound 2016 Dodge Journey, which may have been in the lane waiting to turn. Subsequently, the force caused the Dodge Journey to crash into a Nissan Frontier.
 
Minutes later, paramedics and California Highway Patrol officers responded, finding Mata-Garcia deceased at the scene.
 
After the crash, the Dodge Journey driver reportedly left and handed his 1-year-old occupant to a bystander. However, Eribertha Martinez-Amado, a Dodge passenger, stayed back and reported minor injuries. Wendi Pacheco-Lopez, the 32-year-old Frontier driver, also reported minor wounds. Paramedics took at least one patient to Marian Regional Medical Center for care.
 
At this time, CHP is investigating the outstanding details. Thus far, they suspect alcohol to have factored into the crash.
 
If anyone has information on the crash or Dodge Journey driver, call the CHP’s Santa Maria Area Office at 805-608-6310.

Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Jesus Antonio Mata-Garcia.

The Law Offices of Daniel Kim pledges to help crash victims and surviving family members during times of need. Count on us during this heavy and emotional time. We will prepare a convincing case, prove the fault, gather all evidence to strengthen your case and negotiate with the insurer. Take this time for healing and resting. Our law firm is no stranger to undertaking small- and large-scale car accident lawsuits. Call (800) 895-7199 for a free case assessment. You have two years from the accident date to act.