Huntington Beach, CA (December 9, 2025) – A deadly two-vehicle crash early on December 8 left one man dead and sent another to the hospital. The collision happened shortly after 2 a.m. on Pacific Coast Highway, just south of Warner Avenue near the Bolsa Chica Ecological Preserve.
Police arrived to find a black Ford Expedition and a white Audi Q5 badly damaged after a high-speed impact. Officials said the Ford, driven by a 44-year-old Sunnyvale man, lost control and veered into nearby wetlands. He suffered minor injuries and stayed at the scene before being taken to a local hospital. Police said they do not believe he was impaired.
Across the roadway, the Audi ended up overturned in a beach parking lot west of the highway. The driver, identified as 29-year-old Alec Barbisan of Huntington Beach, died at the scene. Authorities said he struck the Ford from behind while heading north on PCH.
Crews shut down the highway in both directions between Warner Ave and Seapoint St for several hours while investigators examined the scene. Officers said they are still waiting for toxicology results to determine if impairment played a role for the Audi driver.
This crash marks the third fatal traffic collision in Huntington Beach since Monday, December 1. The investigation into Monday’s fatal crash remains active.
We send our sincere wishes for recovery to those injured in this incident.
Fatal Traffic Crashes in Huntington Beach
Fatal crashes in Huntington Beach continue to raise concern within the community. Each year, the city reports a significant number of serious collisions on major roadways, including the Pacific Coast Highway. Many of these incidents involve high speeds, late-night driving, or
distracted motorists. Because PCH is a busy coastal route, it often sees a mix of commuters, beach visitors, cyclists, and pedestrians, which increases the risk of severe collisions.
When a crash leads to a loss of life, families face sudden grief as well as financial stress. They may need help with funeral expenses, medical bills, and lost income. A wrongful death claim can help surviving family members pursue compensation from the at-fault party. These cases often require careful investigation, reviews of crash reports, and expert analysis to determine what caused the collision and who should be held responsible.
Speeding remains one of the most common factors in fatal crashes on PCH. Drivers who travel too fast reduce their ability to react, especially in low-light conditions during early morning hours. Distracted driving also plays a major role. Even a quick glance at a phone can cause a driver to miss traffic changes or drifting vehicles. Impairment—whether from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue—can also increase the chances of a deadly outcome.
Victims and families often feel overwhelmed after such an incident. A personal injury lawyer from Saleh Law Group can guide them through insurance challenges, protect their rights, and gather evidence before it disappears. Legal support can also help families pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term needs. While financial recovery cannot replace a loved one, it can ease the burden during a difficult time.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious crash in Huntington Beach, legal help is available. After you’ve been injured by a careless motorist, don’t hesitate to contact our team at 949-431-6371. We offer free consultations and will take the time to understand your story. Let Saleh Law Group fight to get you the compensation and answers you deserve.
