Update by the Santa Maria Police Department
May 3, 2024

The deceased passenger was identified as Tiffany Ann Peterson, 39 years old from Orcutt. Her father, Charles Peterson, was the driver of the pickup.

The case is still under investigation.

Pickup Collides with Forklift Killing One Person in Santa Maria

By the Santa Maria Police Department
May 2, 2024

On Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 at 1506 hours Santa Maria Police & Fire Departments responded to a vehicle vs a Caterpillar telescoping forklift crash at Skyway Dr. and Hangar St.

A small pickup truck was traveling southbound on Skyway Dr. at Hangar St. when it collided into the fork of a telescoping forklift. The collision caused major damage to the pickup truck which also collided into a fire hydrant causing water to flood the scene.

The pickup’s passenger suffered fatal injuries at the scene as a result of the crash. The driver was rescued by SMFD and transported to the hospital with moderate injuries. The operator of the forklift reported no injuries.

SMPD Traffic Unit responded and is currently investigating this crash. Skyway Dr. is closed between McCoy Ln. and Industrial Pkwy. But should be opened momentarily.