Michael Garcia Dies after Rollover Crash on Highway 101 [Santa Barbara County, CA]

Dinara Arevalo Arrested after Fatal High-Speed Crash near Refugio State Beach

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CA (October 1, 2018) – A man has died days after he was critically injured in a crash on Highway 101 near Refugio State Beach. The victim was later identified as 58-year-old Michael Garcia, a resident of Santa Barbara.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident began in the city of Lompoc. A white Toyota RAV4 was being chased by law enforcement officers when it lost control and hit a black Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. The impact of the crash caused the pickup to roll over nearby railroad tracks.

Garcia and the pickup driver, identified as 60-year-old Brett J Bronstad, were rushed to the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with serious injuries. Unfortunately, Garcia succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead ten days after the collision. Meanwhile, Bronstad was treated and subsequently released.

The RAV4 driver, identified as 24-year-old Dinara Arevalo of Lompoc, was arrested on felony charges of evading a police officer and causing great bodily injury. However, the District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the charges against Arevalo in the wake of Garcia’s death. She is currently being held at the Santa Barbara County Jail, with a bail set at $150,000.

Additional information will be released following the conclusion of the investigation.

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We at Sweet Law Group offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Michael Garcia. May he rest in peace.

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If you have lost a loved one in a crash caused by a reckless driver, reach out to the experienced lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We have over 40 years of experience in the legal field, and we know what it takes to win your wrongful death case. Our attorneys and professional legal team have dealt with cases including car accidents, personal injury, and disability. Untiringly, we will fight to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve. Call our offices at (800) 203-3061 for a free consultation with a professional in your area. We can also be contacted by email, online chat, and text message 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.