On Tuesday December 24, 2024, at approximately 7:02 pm deputies and other emergency personnel responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic collision at the intersection of Hollister Av and Magnolia Dr in Old Town Goleta.

The preliminary investigation showed two pedestrians were crossing in a northerly direction at the intersection where there is not a marked crosswalk. A vehicle was traveling westbound at approximately 25 mph and the driver failed to see the pedestrians and struck both of them. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and has been cooperating with investigators.

The injuries were significant on one of the pedestrians in that he was unresponsive and unconscious at the scene.  He received immediate aid from first responders and eventually both were transported to the hospital.

The pedestrian who was unconscious at the scene, was identified as Ricardo Hernandez (76) of Goleta. After being admitted, he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 10:49 pm.  His next of kin were at the hospital at the time of death and have been notified.

At this time, drugs and/or alcohol are not a factor in this collision and no arrest has been made.

The Sheriff’s Major Accident Response Team is continuing its investigation and asks that anyone who might have information, please call Senior Deputy Jeff Farmer at (805) 961-7514.