Cinco muertos en accidente de un solo vehículo en Santa Maria

The Santa Maria Police Department is investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred early Sunday morning, resulting in the deaths of five people and leaving one person in critical condition. Officers and paramedics responded to the intersection of South Broadway and Miller Street at approximately 1:40 a.m.

after receiving reports of a crash. Upon arrival, they found that the vehicle had struck a traffic signal pole.

Four passengers were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were transported to a local hospital for treatment. One of the hospitalized victims later died from their injuries, and the other remains in critical condition.

Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash and believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor. Additionally, there are indications that the vehicle may have been speeding prior to the incident, though this has not yet been confirmed.

The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The crash occurred in Santa Maria, which is located in Santa Barbara County.