Santa Cruz County, CA – A 45-year-old Felton man was killed early Sunday morning, February 15, 2026, after crashing into multiple vehicles and a tree, according to KSBW, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol Santa Cruz responded to reports of a crash around 2:18 a.m. near 7665 East Zayante Road, north of West Zayante Road. Authorities determined the collision occurred shortly before, at approximately 2:12 a.m., when the driver of a 2018 Honda Civic was traveling southbound at an unknown speed.
Investigators said the Honda left the roadway, struck three parked vehicles, and then crashed into a tree. The impact caused the vehicle to overturn. The driver was ejected from the car and pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency logs indicate the vehicle was found on its roof, and officials confirmed the fatality shortly after arrival. The roadway was temporarily closed while crews investigated and cleared the scene, reopening around 8:00 a.m.
Authorities have not yet released the man’s name pending notification of next of kin. It remains unknown whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash, and the cause is still under investigation.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages through a Wrongful Death Claim.
For more information on Wrongful Death Claims, visit MaisonLaw.com.
