A devastating two-vehicle collision in Fillmore claimed the life of 5-year-old Lucien Iniguez and a 28-year-old woman on Tuesday night, leaving a community in mourning and several others injured, including Lucien’s younger sister.
The tragic accident occurred around 8:45 p.m. near the intersection of Highway 126 and D Street, a stretch also known as Ventura Street within Fillmore city limits, according to Ventura County Sheriff’s Capt. Jason Karol. Authorities say the crash involved a head-on collision in the westbound lanes of the highway, just west of D Street.
Lucien, a bright and loving child who had just graduated from preschool, was among the six individuals treated at the scene and rushed to nearby hospitals. Despite emergency efforts, the young Fillmore boy later succumbed to his injuries.
He was affectionately known as “Punky” by his family and friends—a nickname that reflected his playful, cheerful spirit. His smile lit up every room he entered, and his kindness left an impression on everyone who had the joy of knowing him.
“He brought joy to everyone,” wrote his family on a GoFundMe page launched to support funeral expenses and medical costs for Lucien’s 2-year-old sister, Juni, who was also injured in the crash. “Lucien had a special way of making people feel seen and loved — his spirit was pure, and his love was endless.”
The boy is survived by his heartbroken parents, Jose Iniguez and Myryam Castillo, and his little sister, Juni, who the family says adored her big brother.
The 28-year-old woman from Oxnard, who was driving one of the vehicles involved, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity has not yet been released by authorities.
The California Highway Patrol and the California Department of Transportation assisted with road management during the investigation, which continues as officials work to determine the cause of the crash. Deputies are urging anyone with information to contact Deputy Bradley Bordon at 805-388-5146.
Lucien’s family is now left grappling with unimaginable grief. In their words: “Thank you for helping us honor the beautiful life of Lucien ‘Punky.’ His light will live on in all of us.”