Miguel Ayala, Santiago Madrigal die in fatal accident on Highway 101

Chevy Colorado truck crashed near State Beaches exit

February 14, 2026 | Ventura, CA

Two 21-year-old men from Oxnard lost their lives in a tragic single-vehicle accident on southbound Highway 101 north of Ventura. 

The California Highway Patrol reported the incident occurred early Saturday morning near the State Beaches exit.

Miguel Angel Zamudio Ayala, 21, and Santiago Madrigal, 21, died after a Chevy Colorado crashed on Highway 101 near the State Beaches exit north of Ventura.

What Happened in the Crash?

The victims, identified by the Medical Examiner's Office as Miguel Angel Zamudio Ayala and Santiago Madrigal, were traveling in a Chevy Colorado truck when the vehicle veered off the road just before 2:30 a.m. Both occupants were ejected from the truck during the crash.

• Date and Time: Feb. 14, early morning around 2:30 a.m.
• Location: Southbound Highway 101, near State Beaches exit, north of Ventura, CA
• Vehicle Involved: Chevy Colorado pickup truck
• Victims: Miguel Angel Zamudio Ayala, 21, and Santiago Madrigal, 21, both from Oxnard
• Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
• Outcome: Two fatalities, and circumstances under investigation

Authorities have not yet determined who was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Road crashes remain a leading cause of death in the United States, often linked to factors like speeding, impaired driving, and distractions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle collisions resulted in thousands of fatalities in recent quarters, underscoring the need for vigilant road safety measures.

This table highlights key contributors to highway accidents, based on reports from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, an independent review can provide clarity on liability and support affected families. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, emphasizes the importance of thorough examinations.

“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond.

• Time-sensitive evidence collection is crucial to preserving details like witness statements and digital records.
• Families may pursue claims for wrongful death to address losses, including companionship and emotional distress.
• Consulting professionals ensures a comprehensive analysis beyond initial police reports.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, adds insight on the broader implications.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”

Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., stands as a premier digital news platform with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our rigorous standards ensure accurate, timely reporting on critical incidents like this Highway 101 crash. 

We invite readers to review our Corrections Policy for transparency, with a 24-hour review guarantee on any submitted feedback.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.