A Woodland man died Tuesday when the tow truck he was driving collided with a vehicle that apparently had crossed into his path, the California Highway Patrol reported.
Casey Joel Marston, 41, was at the wheel of an International tow truck traveling eastbound on Highway 16 shortly after 4 p.m. At the same time, the driver of a Subaru Crosstrek had stopped at County Road 94B, then proceeded southbound across the highway to continue on that road, according to a CHP news release.
As the Subaru pulled into the intersection, Marston “was not able to slow, stop or turn his vehicle in time,” causing the tow truck to strike the left rear of the Subaru, the news release said. The tow truck “continued eastbound, drove off the road and into a ditch, overturned and came to rest on its roof.”
Marston suffered fatal injuries in the crash, while the Subaru’s driver, Davis resident Brooke Ely, reported having minor injuries.
Marston was employed by Citizens Towing and Impound of Woodland, which paid tribute to Marston on its Facebook page Wednesday.
“We lost a wonderful friend and employee yesterday. We will miss your footstep, your laughter, your talent, your energy, your skill, your humor, your kindness. You had it all. You were a good man Casey Marston,” the post said.
The collision remains under investigation, though CHP officials say neither excessive speed nor drugs or alcohol appear to be factors in the incident.