Santa Barbara County, CA – On the afternoon of Saturday, September 20, 2025, a single-vehicle crash left one person dead from severe injuries, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 2:32 PM on State Route 166 east of Chimineas Ranch Road.
Investigators said a gray Toyota Prius left the roadway and sustained major front-end damage. The vehicle came to rest off the highway with a flat tire and extensive damage visible.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and confirmed that the driver suffered fatal injuries. Authorities pronounced the victim dead at the location.
Officials requested a tow truck to remove the damaged Prius and cleared the roadway later in the afternoon.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the collision. Officers are working to determine why the Prius left the roadway and what factors may have contributed to the deadly crash.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
