Goleta, CA – A fatal early-morning crash in Goleta claimed the life of 41-year-old Maria Alvarez, who was struck and killed while walking along Calle Real. The incident occurred at approximately 12:55 a.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, in the 7300 block of Calle Real, and remains under investigation by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Major Accident Response Team.
According to officials, the driver, 68-year-old Jeselyn Invina of Goleta, was heading westbound when she said she was momentarily blinded by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle. In her statement to deputies, Invina explained that she looked away from the road to avoid the glare, causing her vehicle to veer to the right and leave the roadway. Her car eventually came to a stop in a nearby field.
Deputies responded to the crash site and discovered Maria Alvarez, an adult pedestrian, located roughly 300 feet away from where Invina’s vehicle came to rest. Emergency crews attempted life-saving efforts, but Alvarez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Driver Reportedly Unaware of Collision
In a shocking detail, Jeselyn Invina reportedly did not realize she had struck a pedestrian until authorities informed her at the scene. She remained on-site and cooperated fully with law enforcement during their initial investigation. At this time, authorities say drugs and alcohol are not suspected as contributing factors in the crash.
Investigation Ongoing
The Major Accident Response Team (MART) continues to collect evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events. Investigators are reviewing factors such as vehicle trajectory, lighting conditions, and Alvarez’s possible location on or near the roadway at the time of the collision.
No arrests have been made, and Jeselyn Invina has not been charged, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Remembering Maria Alvarez
Maria Alvarez was a kind, compassionate woman whose sudden death has left her family and community in mourning. Friends and neighbors recall her as thoughtful and full of life. The circumstances of her death have sparked conversations around pedestrian safety and the need for better lighting and protections along busy stretches of Calle Real.
Her family is now grappling with an unimaginable loss and awaiting answers as the investigation moves forward.
Public Asked to Assist
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information related to the events leading up to it to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Community cooperation may help provide clarity and closure for all those affected.
As the community mourns the loss of Maria Alvarez, the investigation into the fatal actions of Jeselyn Invina continues. Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the victim during this incredibly painful time.