By Crash News Writer 
Castroville, CA (December 10, 2025) – A tragic head-on crash Sunday night between Salinas and Castroville left one woman dead and prompted an extended road closure for investigation. The crash occurred around 7:30 p.m. on December 8 along Espinosa Road, just south of Rodgers Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the two-car collision resulted in significant damage, with wreckage and debris scattered across both lanes. Authorities confirmed that the crash was a head-on impact and closed Espinosa Road in both directions between State Route 183 and Christensen Road. Drivers were advised to use SR-156 as an alternate route.
The Monterey County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 45-year-old Melanie Manalac of Salinas. CHP has not released information on how many people were in each vehicle or whether others were injured. The crash remains under investigation.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The information in this report is based on preliminary details from law enforcement and may change as the investigation continues.
- Melanie Manalac, 45, of Salinas, was confirmed as the victim by the Monterey County Coroner. Additional identities and injury reports have not yet been released.
- Investigators are actively working to determine the cause of the crash, including reviewing evidence from the scene.
- Espinosa Road remains closed as cleanup and investigation continue. Authorities have not provided a timeline for reopening.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal crash, accident resources in California may help you understand your next steps and find supportive tools.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. Official findings may update the current details. For more, see our disclaimer.
If your family is grieving after this tragic loss, contact a California personal injury lawyer today to seek justice and protect your legal rights.