Monterey County, CA – On the afternoon of Sunday, February 22, 2026, a single-vehicle crash resulted in major injuries to a 6-year-old boy and a 7-month-old girl, as well as minor injuries to 25-year-old Daniel Anthony Santos of Fresno and a 21-year-old woman, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 4:40 PM on eastbound Highway 156 near Cathedral Oaks Road.
Authorities stated that Santos was driving a gray Kia SUV eastbound when he made an unsafe turning movement. Investigators determined the vehicle crossed into the westbound lane, traveled off the roadway, and collided with a tree. The impact caused substantial vehicle damage and prompted a multi-agency emergency response.
The 21-year-old female passenger sustained minor injuries. The two children suffered major injuries and were airlifted to a Bay Area hospital for advanced trauma care. Emergency medical personnel transported Santos to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries prior to his release to law enforcement custody.
Following a medical evaluation, authorities arrested Santos on suspicion of driving under the influence. He was subsequently booked into the Monterey County Jail. Investigators have indicated that alcohol and or drugs are believed to have been contributing factors, though the findings remain preliminary pending further examination and toxicology results.
The crash remains under active investigation as authorities continue to analyze physical evidence, assess roadway conditions, and review all relevant circumstances surrounding the incident.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
Ongoing Investigations
Victims of traffic accidents and their families should be aware that authorities may fail to note or even misinterpret critical evidence at a crash site. One of the services that a Personal Injury Attorney can provide is to pursue follow-up investigations, which can reveal additional evidence to correct any errors made by previous investigators.
Passenger Liability
Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Personal Injury Claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming. As a neutral third party, an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate these emotional complexities.
California Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
