A devastating high-speed crash early Saturday morning in Santa Maria has left five young people dead and a sixth hospitalized in critical condition, with officials confirming that three of the victims were students at local high schools. The single-vehicle collision occurred on June 7, 2026, at approximately 1:40 a.m.
at the intersection of South Broadway (State Route 135) and Miller Street, just north of Waller Park, according to the Santa Maria Police Department.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle struck a traffic signal pole. Four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were transported to Marian Regional Medical Center.
One of those transported later died from injuries, and the remaining occupant remains in critical condition.
Kenny Klein, public information officer for the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District, confirmed the tragic link to local schools. "It is with a heavy heart that I can confirm three of the six young people involved in the early Sunday multi-fatal crash were SMJUHSD students," Klein said.
"One attended PVHS (Pioneer Valley), another attended SMHS (Santa Maria High School), and the third was enrolled in a Delta High School program but previously attended PVHS."
Klein noted that none of the victims were scheduled to graduate during commencement ceremonies taking place Wednesday and Thursday this week. "Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and school communities.
Counseling services will remain available throughout the week. Please respect the privacy of everyone related to this horrible incident," he added.
Investigators are actively working to determine the cause of the collision. Preliminary evidence suggests alcohol may have been a contributing factor, but the investigation remains ongoing and no final determination has been made.
Officers have also received information indicating the vehicle may have been traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the crash.
The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Due to the severity of the collision, both northbound and southbound lanes of South Broadway were closed for several hours while officers conducted their investigation.