On 03/14/2026 at approximately 10:25 p.m., officers with the Santa Maria Police Department responded to the 300 block of N. Pine Street for a reported traffic collision involving a vehicle that struck a light pole.
The reporting party initially advised the driver was attempting to leave the scene, but later reported the driver had exited the vehicle and was lying on the ground and appeared deceased. Officers arrived and located the driver outside of the vehicle. The driver was conscious but displayed signs of heavy intoxication. Officers determined the driver had exited the vehicle after the collision and passed out on scene due to intoxication.
The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to Marian Hospital for medical evaluation. Officers are seeking a blood search warrant as part of the DUI investigation.
The Santa Maria Police Department reminds the public to never drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence puts lives at risk, and officers will continue to remain diligent in identifying and removing impaired drivers from the roadway to help keep the community safe.
