The California Highway Patrol released more information Monday about the New Year’s Day crash that claimed the life of Steven Salas, Santa Paula’s former City Clerk.
Although the cause of the crash remains under investigation, according to the CHP at about 6:30 p.m. on January 1 Salas was driving a sport utility vehicle north on Vineyard Avenue south of Highway 118 near El Rio when he struck the car in front of him, losing control of his SUV. Salas’ vehicle rolled several times and came to rest on its roof. Salas died from blunt-force head trauma. The driver of the other car, Ignacio Arenas, 60, also of Santa Paula, suffered minor injuries, as did his two unidentified passengers. According to the CHP all the victims were wearing seatbelts. No one was arrested or cited.
A native of Santa Paula, Salas, 49, was a private investigator who served as City Clerk 2000-2004, an office held by his father Victor Salas Sr. from 1996-2000. Steven Salas was defeated in his bid for a second term.
Salas leaves numerous survivors including six children and six grandchildren. Services for Salas were held Thursday.
