The California Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal head-on crash that occurred Monday morning on Highway 1 in Monterey County, leaving a young woman dead and another motorist hospitalized.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Pearl Chavez, 22, of Marina. CHP officials stated the collision happened just north of Highway 183 near Castroville at around 6:16 a.m.
According to investigators, a southbound gray Acura and a northbound red Volkswagen collided head-on for reasons that have not yet been determined. Following the crash, the Acura blocked the southbound lanes, while Chavez’s vehicle came to rest on the shoulder.
Emergency responders pronounced Chavez dead at the scene. The other driver was taken to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing.