Monterey County, CA – On Monday morning, January 12, 2026, Pearl Chavez, a 22-year-old woman from Marina, was killed in a head-on collision on Highway 1 just north of Highway 183 near Castroville, according to KSBW, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred at approximately 6:16 a.m. when a gray Acura driven by a man traveling southbound collided with a red Volkswagen driven by Chavez, who was traveling northbound. For reasons that remain under investigation, the two vehicles struck each other head-on.
Emergency responders from local fire departments arrived on scene to provide medical assistance and extricate both drivers. Both individuals were transported to a nearby hospital with major injuries. Chavez later succumbed to her injuries at the hospital.
The involved Acura came to rest blocking the southbound lanes of Highway 1, while the Volkswagen was positioned on the right shoulder of the northbound lanes. California Highway Patrol officers coordinated with the California Department of Transportation and tow services to remove debris and clear the roadway. All lanes were reopened at approximately 8:17 a.m.
At this time, CHP has not released information regarding whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the collision. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the identities of the drivers were confirmed following standard notification procedures.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a Wrongful Death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
California Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
