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Buellton, CA -- It will be a while before CHP investigators determine what caused a crash between a big rig and a BMW last Thursday on Hiway 101 in the three bridges area south of Buellton. The accident killed the truck driver and injured a family of three in the BMW.The dramtic story of an incredible reacue was portrayed last night on NBC news. 48-year-old Charles Allison Jr. of Grover Beach was a driver at a wrecking yard in San Luis Obispo County. He died when his truck slammed into the BMW on the Nojoqui Creek Bridge, went through the concrete guard railing, and plummeted to the creek below. His rig then caught on fire.
As for the three passengers in the BMW, which ended up dangling on the guard rail, they were all extricated with the help of a SEABEE forklift. Kelli Groves is a first grade teacher in San Juan Capistrano. She was travelling north with her two young daughters when she was hit from behind. All were injured to some degree, and were taken to a local hospital. Injuries were non-lifethreatening.
CHP investigators are inspecting the truck to see if any mechanical problems could be a factor in the deadly crash. The CHP added the northbound number 1 lane is still closed. No word yet on when it will be re-open
