Authorities Identify Two Victims in Recent Fatal Traffic Crashes in San Diego County
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. – Authorities have confirmed the identities of two men who tragically lost their lives in separate traffic accidents in the San Diego region over the Labor Day holiday period. The victims, 46-year-old Alfredo Trevino and 50-year-old Curtis Van Atta Jr., died as a result of injuries sustained in unrelated incidents—both now under investigation by local law enforcement agencies.
Motorcyclist Killed on State Route 79 Identified as Alfredo Trevino
The first incident occurred on Saturday, along State Route 79, where Alfredo Trevino, 46, died following a motorcycle collision in a rural stretch of highway northeast of San Diego. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Trevino had been riding his motorcycle when, under circumstances still being reviewed, he lost control and crashed, suffering critical injuries.
Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene, but despite their efforts, Trevino was pronounced dead shortly after the collision. Authorities believe no other vehicles were directly involved, though investigators are examining whether road conditions, speed, or mechanical failure may have played a role.
Trevino’s death marks another tragic reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face, particularly on winding and less-traveled roads in the county’s more remote areas. Friends and family have begun sharing tributes online, describing Trevino as a passionate rider and a beloved member of his community.
Curtis Van Atta Jr. Dies Two Days After Labor Day Multi-Vehicle Crash in Santee
In a separate incident, Curtis Van Atta Jr., 50, has been identified as the man who succumbed to injuries sustained during a multi-vehicle pileup that occurred on Labor Day in Santee.
The crash, which involved several vehicles, took place amid heavy holiday traffic and led to significant delays and road closures in the area. Van Atta, who was among those most seriously injured, was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite intensive medical intervention, he passed away two days later, surrounded by family.
The Santee Sheriff’s Station and San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his identity and cause of death. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the pileup, including possible contributing factors such as driver error, distraction, or impaired driving.
Witnesses described the crash scene as chaotic, with several vehicles sustaining heavy damage and multiple occupants requiring medical attention. No arrests have been made, and no official statement has been released regarding any pending charges as the investigation remains ongoing.
Community Impact and Investigations Continue
The deaths of Alfredo Trevino and Curtis Van Atta Jr. have cast a somber shadow over what is typically a celebratory holiday weekend. Law enforcement officials are using these tragedies as an opportunity to remind the public about the importance of defensive driving, motorcycle safety, and avoiding impaired or distracted driving, especially during high-traffic periods like Labor Day.
Both families are said to be grieving privately, and funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.
Anyone who may have witnessed either incident or who has information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol for the State Route 79 crash, or the Santee Sheriff’s Station regarding the Labor Day pileup.
As the investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of two lives taken too soon on San Diego’s roads.