A Thanksgiving evening collision on State Route 1 on the Mendocino Coast south of Fort Bragg claimed the life of Joseph Garcia, a beloved Fort Bragg resident, and left two others injured.
The crash occurred on November 28, 2024, at approximately 9:55 p.m on the Caspar Creek Bridge between Fort Bragg and Mendocino.
Sarah Rowe, 44, of Mendocino, was driving a 2007 Infiniti sedan northbound on SR-1, accompanied by Garcia, her 25-year-old male passenger. Investigators report that Rowe lost control of her vehicle, causing it to veer into the southbound lane and collide head-on with a 2023 GMC van driven by 76-year-old Katherine Whipple of Alameda.
Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene, while Rowe sustained major injuries and was airlifted to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital in critical condition. Whipple was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
The CHP indicated that impairment on Rowe’s part is suspected, though it has not been confirmed, and the investigation is ongoing.
Garcia’s mother, Cat Wenke, of Fort Bragg, identified him as the deceased passenger in the crash and remembered him as a kind-hearted, vibrant individual deeply loved by his family. “He was caring, hardworking, charismatic, intelligent, goal-oriented. Fun-loving. He was perfect,” Wenke said.
Describing her son’s devotion to his family, Wenke shared, “He always looked out for me and his siblings. He was so funny and generous, always wanting to make others happy.”
“He was very independent and respectful,” Wenke said. “He had such a big heart and always made people feel special.”
Joseph Garcia’s sister, Kendle Alvarez, remembered her brother as a bright and happy soul, someone whose infectious smile and joyful energy left a lasting impression on everyone he met. “He always had a smile on his face and always had a way to spread that joy,” she said. Whether he was greeting a stranger with a simple “hello” or going out of his way to make someone feel special, he exuded kindness and generosity.
“He was light. He was colorful,” Kendle continued, describing her brother’s vibrant personality. “He was adventurous about trying new things,” she said, recalling how Joseph was constantly excited for what the future would bring. He had so much to look forward to, and his family is heartbroken that his journey was cut short. “He was barely starting out,” Kendle added.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist with the costs of Garcia’s memorial services.
The investigation into the crash continues, and the CHP has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
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My sincerest, heartfelt condolences to this beautiful young man’s family and friends.
Rest Easy??????
Those ???? Marks we’re suppose to be praying hands, a dove, and a sad emoji
No disrespect intended
Those ???? Marks we’re suppose to be praying hands, a dove, and a sad emoji
No disrespect intended
I’m so sorry you lost your loved one. You’re on the heart and in the prayers of this stranger today.
May God hold you and comfort you in your time of great sorrow. Heartfealt condolences….