Correctional Officer ID’d as man killed in Chualar crash

UPDATE: 10/18/2018 2:00 p.m. A correctional officer for the Salinas Valley State Prison has been identified as the man killed in a car accident on Highway 101 in Chualar.

The fatal crash happened at 4:18 p.m. Wednesday.

According to the California Highway Patrol, a big rig pulling two trailers attempted to make a left turn from southbound 101 across northbound traffic lanes to enter an agricultural field east of the highway.

As the truck crossed the northbound lanes, 36-year-old correctional officer, Humberto Ayala collided with the side of the second trailer. Ayala’s Nissan became wedged underneath the semi.

“Following the collision, the truck and trailer combination continued to travel towards the east shoulder of US-101 northbound, with the Nissan still lodged beneath,” said CHP officer Jessica Madueno.

Officer Ayala was taken to Natividad where he died from his injuries.

CHP does not believe drugs or alcohol played a role in this crash.

Officials at Salinas Valley State Prison said officer Ayala was an outstanding officer and the entire facility is hurting. Ayala started working for SVSP in February of 2005.

PREVIOUS STORY:

10/17/18 6:46 p.m.: One person is dead after a crash on Highway 101 near Chualar.

According to the California Highway Patrol, all lanes of the northbound side are now back open.

One person had to be cut out of the vehicle.

The big rig was loaded with two water tanks, but no hazardous material.

PREVIOUS STORY:

Highway 101 Northbound, one mile south of Chualar is shutdown due to an accident.

There are reports a vehicle was trapped underneath a semi.

Southbound lanes are open, however traffic is moving slowly.

No word on when the area is expected to reopen.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.