The Santa Maria Police Department is providing an update regarding the major traffic collision that occurred on August 30, 2026, near the intersection of Blosser Road and Eagleton Avenue.

The deceased has been identified as 22-year-old Emmanuel Gomez Cortes, a resident of Santa Maria. During the course of the investigation, Cortes was identified as the driver of the vehicle.

As previously reported, alcohol is suspected to have been a contributing factor in the collision. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation by the Santa Maria Police Department Traffic Unit.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Santa Maria Police Department Traffic Unit at (805) 928-3781.

Prepared by:
Sergeant Shane Armstrong
Traffic Unit Supervisor
Santa Maria Police Department