Newhall, CA (March 1, 2026) – Authorities have identified 61-year-old Mario Baez of San Fernando and 45-year-old Nathaniel Cottrill of Bullhead City, Arizona, as the two men who died in a crash in Newhall on the morning of Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Incident Details: According to officials, the collision occurred around 6:50 a.m. at the intersection of Newhall Avenue and Sierra Highway in Newhall on March 1, 2026. The crash involved two vehicles and three people. Authorities reported that Baez and Cottrill were leaving the Polynesian Mobile Home Park when their vehicle was struck by a Los Angeles County Public Works vehicle.
Emergency responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived to find Baez and Cottrill deceased at the scene. One of the men was trapped inside the vehicle and had to be extricated by firefighters before being pronounced dead.
A third individual involved in the crash was evaluated at the scene but was not injured. The intersection remained closed for several hours while crews investigated the collision.
Investigation: The Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station and other responding agencies are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash. Investigators will focus on how the two vehicles entered the intersection and whether either driver failed to yield or violated traffic controls.
Authorities will likely review witness statements, vehicle damage, and roadway evidence such as skid marks and impact points to reconstruct the sequence of events. Investigators may also examine whether speed, distraction, visibility conditions, or other factors contributed to the collision. Because one of the vehicles belonged to Los Angeles County Public Works, investigators may also review operational procedures and vehicle activity at the time of the crash.
Legal Considerations: When fatal crashes involve government-operated vehicles, liability questions can become more complex. Investigators must determine whether the Public Works vehicle was being operated safely and in accordance with traffic laws at the time of the collision.
If evidence shows that negligence contributed to the crash, the families of Mario Baez and Nathaniel Cottrill may have grounds to pursue wrongful death claims. Claims involving government agencies may also be subject to special procedures and deadlines under California law.
My sincere condolences go out to the families and loved ones of Mario Baez and Nathaniel Cottrill as they cope with this tragic loss. My thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.
Source: KHTS Hometown Station