Monterey County, California (December 5, 2025) — Authorities have identified the woman who was killed Sunday night in a head-on collision between Salinas and Castroville as Melanie Manalac, 45, of Salinas, according to the Monterey County Coroner’s Office.
Incident Details: The fatal crash was reported at approximately 7:34 p.m. Sunday on Espinosa Road just south of Rodgers Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. Investigators said a Nissan sedan, driven by a 33-year-old man from Oklahoma, was traveling westbound when it crossed into the oncoming lane for reasons that remain unclear. The Nissan collided head-on with a Ford SUV traveling eastbound, driven by a 45-year-old man from Salinas.
Manalac was a passenger in the Ford SUV and was pronounced dead at the scene. CHP reported that both drivers sustained major injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. No updates on their current conditions have been released.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash. In head-on collisions, investigators typically focus on determining why a vehicle crossed into opposing traffic. This includes examining roadway evidence such as tire marks, debris fields, and vehicle damage to reconstruct the sequence of events.
CHP investigators are also expected to analyze whether speed, impairment, or driver inattention played a role. Officers may review toxicology results, cellphone data, and vehicle systems to gain a better understanding of the driver’s behavior before the collision. Environmental factors such as lighting, road design, and visibility conditions are also evaluated as part of a comprehensive crash reconstruction.
CHP has indicated that alcohol is believed to be a factor, though the investigation remains ongoing and no final determinations have been announced.
Legal Considerations: Head-on crashes caused by impaired driving are among the most preventable and most devastating types of roadway tragedies. When alcohol is suspected, investigators will closely examine whether a driver’s impaired judgment, delayed reaction time, or lane departure directly led to the collision.
When a fatal crash involves suspected DUI, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship and support. The injured Ford driver may also be able to pursue a personal injury claim to recover medical expenses and lost wages. While criminal proceedings focus on punishment and public safety, civil claims provide families with a path toward accountability and financial stability after a sudden and heartbreaking loss.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Melanie Manalac, and I wish strength and healing to all those affected by the crash.
Source: KSBW