By Crash News Writer 
Salinas, CA (October 16, 2025) – Efrain Plascencia, 41, of Salinas, was one of two people killed in a multi-vehicle collision Sunday evening on Highway 101, according to the California Highway Patrol.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:49 p.m. on October 12 on Highway 101 near Chualar River Road. Plascencia was driving a white Kia SUV northbound in the southbound lanes when he struck a black Honda sedan head-on. The Honda was driven by 46-year-old Joel Nunez-Vargas of Yuma, Arizona.
A white Toyota sedan driven by a 29-year-old Salinas resident was also involved in the crash.
Both Plascencia and Nunez-Vargas were pronounced dead at the scene. A female passenger and two minors in Plascencia’s vehicle were transported to a local hospital. Their conditions have not yet been made public.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the collision.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This report is based on initial details provided by local authorities. It may be updated as new information becomes available. For more information on post-crash procedures, view our frequently asked questions in California.
- The identities of the injured female passenger and minors have not been disclosed.
- CHP continues to investigate what caused the wrong-way driving incident.
- For real-time traffic and safety updates, check CHP and Caltrans sources.
Support for crash victims and their families is available through accident resources in California, including legal, emotional, and financial assistance.
This story is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for legal or medical advice. Investigation findings may change as more facts come to light. Learn more by reading our disclaimer.
If your family has suffered a tragic loss in this crash, reach out to an experienced California personal injury lawyer for guidance on how to move forward.