[09-05-2025] Santa Barbara County, CA – Passenger Killed, Driver Arrested for DUI After Collision at State Route 246 and Domingos Road

A passenger was killed and the driver arrested for driving under the influence after a Tesla Model S collided with a Ford F-150 at the intersection of State Route 246 and Domingos Road in Santa Barbara County on Friday evening, September 5, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 7:00 p.m. when the Tesla, driven by a 46-year-old North Hills man, entered the intersection and was struck by a westbound Ford F-150. The passenger of the Tesla sustained fatal injuries and was declared dead at the scene. The driver of the Ford F-150, a 57-year-old Lompoc man, suffered minor injuries and was transported to a hospital.

The driver of the Tesla was transported by ambulance with major injuries. CHP investigators determined that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

The identity of the passenger is pending notification of their next of kin. The incident remains under investigation.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Santa Barbara County, CA

DUI-related accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Understanding your legal options may help you determine the next steps after being involved in a DUI collision.

Our DUI accident victim lawyers in Santa Barbara County can assist you in exploring your legal options following a crash caused by an impaired driver. This may include reviewing official reports, assisting with insurance communications, and explaining how to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. For cases involving modern vehicles, such as a crash with a Tesla, consulting Tesla accident attorneys can provide guidance.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an intersection accident caused by an impaired driver, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Accident In Santa Barbara County, CA

Collisions caused by impaired drivers can lead to serious injuries. Following certain steps can help protect your legal rights and preserve important evidence.

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately
   Contact 911 or emergency services to ensure anyone injured receives prompt evaluation, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If it is safe, take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and any visible injuries. Writing down the location and weather conditions can also be useful.
3. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the crash. Their statements may help clarify the circumstances and support your claim.
4. Consult Personal Injury Lawyers
   Personal injury lawyers in Santa Barbara County can help you understand your legal options, assist with insurance claims, and ensure key evidence is preserved. Early legal support can help protect your rights and clarify the next steps.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Alcohol-impaired driving remains one of the leading safety concerns on U.S. roads. According to the National Safety Council, 12,429 people died in crashes involving alcohol in 2023, a 7.6 percent decrease from the previous year, marking improvement for the second consecutive year.

A crash is classified as alcohol-impaired when at least one driver or motorcyclist involved has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 grams per deciliter or higher, which is the legal limit in most states. Driving above this threshold is both dangerous and illegal, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to reduce impaired driving.