Update: Identities released in fatal Highway 46 collision
Update posted April 3, 2:30 p.m.
–The decedents from yesterday’s fatal collision on Highway 46 and Buena Vista Drive have been identified as:
• Virginia Mary Stone, 78 years, of Coalinga, CA
• Lawrence Alphonso Lopez, 52 years, of Coalinga, CA
Although the circumstances surrounding this fatal collision are still under investigation, it does not appear that drugs or alcohol were contributing factors. The PRPD does not anticipate issuing any further media releases related to this matter.
Original story posted April 3, 8 a.m.
Witnesses said one of the vehicles involved ran a red light at Buena Vista Drive
– The westbound lanes of Highway 46, at Buena Vista Drive, were temporarily closed this morning as the Paso Robles Police Department investigated a fatal collision that occurred Sunday morning around 8:30 a.m., according to Paso Robles Police. The collision involved two vehicles, a Ford Expedition and a compact Honda car. Two people, believed to be visiting from Coalinga, Ca, were pronounced dead at the scene. An additional three people were transported to the hospital for treatment.
The collision is still under investigation, however it does not appear that alcohol or drugs played a factor. Witnesses said the Ford SUV appeared to run a red light at the intersection of westbound Highway 46 at Buena Vista Drive. A small Honda turning north through the intersection clipped the rear of the SUV. As a result of the collision, the SUV rolled across the highway before coming to rest in the eastbound lanes of Highway 46.
A female passenger in the SUV, who was ejected onto the highway, as well as the male driver were pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional passengers from the SUV, and the driver of the Honda, were transported to Sierra Vista Hospital in San Luis Obispo for treatment of their moderate injuries. A small dog riding in the SUV was taken to a local veterinarian for treatment.
The Paso Robles Department of Emergency Services, California Highway Patrol, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department, and San Luis Ambulance all assisted with the investigation.
