WATSONVILLE, CA, (May 02, 2026) – A fatal three-vehicle collision Saturday night on Highway 1 near Moss Landing claimed the lives of two people, including Paulino Hilario De Los Santos, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Officers responded to the crash scene north of Springfield Road at approximately 10:18 p.m. Investigators said a GMC pickup truck crossed the centerline, sideswiped a northbound Ford pickup, and then collided head-on with a Honda sedan.
Two occupants in the Honda, identified as Paulino Hilario De Los Santos and a 17-year-old boy, were transported for medical care but later died from their injuries. A third passenger in the same vehicle remains in critical condition.
A 58-year-old woman traveling in the Ford pickup was also taken to a hospital, while three other occupants in that vehicle were not injured.
The 51-year-old driver of the GMC sustained serious injuries and was later arrested. Authorities reported that the driver showed signs of alcohol impairment and is facing charges, including DUI causing injury.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
