Golden State Today

On December 24, 2024, at around 7:02 pm, a vehicle-pedestrian collision occurred at the intersection of Hollister Avenue and Magnolia Drive in Old Town Goleta. Emergency personnel, including deputies, responded to the scene.

The initial investigation revealed that two pedestrians were crossing northward at the intersection without a marked crosswalk. A vehicle traveling westbound at about 25 mph struck both pedestrians as the driver failed to notice them. The driver remained on site and has been cooperating with authorities.

One pedestrian sustained severe injuries and was found unresponsive and unconscious at the scene. Both individuals received immediate medical attention from first responders before being transported to a hospital.

The injured pedestrian was identified as Ricardo Hernandez, age 76, from Goleta. Despite receiving medical care, Hernandez succumbed to his injuries later that evening at approximately 10:49 pm. His family members were present at the hospital during his passing and have been informed.

Currently, drugs or alcohol are not considered factors in this incident, and no arrests have been made.

The Sheriff’s Major Accident Response Team is continuing its investigation. Anyone with information regarding this collision is encouraged to contact Senior Deputy Jeff Farmer at (805) 961-7514.