Omar Arriaga Obituary, Death – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is currently investigating a fatal accident that occurred on Highway 101 in south Monterey County on Saturday. The incident took place around 11:45 a.m. and involved five vehicles, prompting the closure of both southbound lanes at Gloria Road while authorities conducted their investigation.
According to the CHP, a 16-year-old male from Salinas was driving a 2021 Chevrolet 2500, which was towing a trailer southbound on Highway 101 when he collided with a Chevrolet Colorado ahead of him. This impact caused the Colorado to lose control and roll over. Tragically, the driver of the Colorado was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the vehicle was taken to Natividad Medical Center to receive treatment for their injuries.
The deceased driver was identified as 49-year-old Omar Arriaga, a resident of Salinas, according to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
The initial crash resulted in a chain reaction, leading to three additional vehicles being involved in the accident. Fortunately, the occupants of the other vehicles reported no injuries. The driver and passenger of a white Honda Accord, as well as the driver of the Chevrolet 2500, and the occupants of a maroon Toyota Sienna, all emerged from the incident unharmed, as stated in a CHP media release.
Investigators have indicated that alcohol is not believed to be a contributing factor in the crash. The 16-year-old driver involved was licensed, and any potential charges related to the incident are still under investigation.
The southbound lanes of Highway 101 remained closed for several hours as officials worked at the scene, finally reopening to traffic at 3:13 p.m. The CHP is continuing to gather information about the crash and has urged anyone with additional details to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.