Santa Paula Man Dies in 1-Car Crash
A Santa Paula man was killed Monday when he drove his car off South Mountain Road into a drainage ditch and collided with a concrete wall.
Luis Martinez, 46, was driving westbound near Hueneme Street about 2:30 p.m. when he crossed over the center divider and into the oncoming traffic lane.
He then drifted into the culvert and moments later slammed into the wall, said California Highway Patrol Sgt. Doug Howell.
Martinez appeared to be driving while under the influence of alcohol, CHP officials said.
Martinez, who was not wearing a seat belt and was traveling about 35 mph, suffered major trauma to his chest.
He was airlifted to Ventura County Medical Center, where he died a short time later.
A passenger in the car, Jose Ruiz, 12, believed to be Martinez’s son, suffered minor injuries.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
