CHP investigates deadly head-on collision on Highway 1

—UPDATE—

The California Highway Patrol has arrested the driver of the Honda sedan involved in the fatal head-on collision for driving under the influence of alcohol.

CHP has identified the driver of the Honda sedan as 35-year old Bryan P. Charette from Lompoc.

Charette was driving northbound on Highway 1 when he crossed the double yellow lines and crashed head-on into the 1997 Nissan. The driver of the Nissan, 73-year old Alfredo Martinez from Oxnard, died at the scene due to his injuries.

CHP says witnesses confirm that Charette was driving at an excessive speed before crossing the double yellow lines and crashing into the pickup truck.

Charette suffered major injuries to his head, chest, arms, and legs and was flown to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

CHP says alcohol did play a factor in this collision and Charette has been arrested.

—INITIAL STORY—

Police are investigating a fatal head-on crash on Highway 1 between Gaviota and Lompoc.

The wreck involving two vehicles was reported around 7:30 p.m. Friday near mile marker 5.5.

One person was declared dead on the scene another was airlifted to Cottage Hospital with major injuries.

Santa Barbara County Fire P.I.O. Mike Eliason said the vehicles involved in the collision were a Honda sedan and a pickup truck.

Both the northbound and southbound lanes were shut down while the coroner has been called to the scene.

There is no estimated time for the reopening of the roadway at this time.

This is the second deadly wreck on Highway 1 this month.