VANDENBERG VILLAGE, Calif. - Authorities have confirmed the identity of 19-year-old Asher Linden Tenud as the victim of a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred on Tuesday morning near Vandenberg Village. The collision took place just south of Constellation Road at approximately 10 a.m., casting a shadow of grief over the community during the holiday season.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Tenud was driving a green 1998 Jaguar XJR southbound when he lost control while navigating a curve. The vehicle crossed the dirt median and collided head-on with a gray 2007 Honda Odyssey traveling northbound. Tenud, who was originally from Portland, Oregon, but had been residing in Santa Maria, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Honda Odyssey sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. As of Thursday afternoon, authorities have not disclosed the identity of the injured driver, nor have they provided an update on their condition.
This tragic incident has brought to light growing safety concerns along Highway 1 near Constellation Road. The CHP reports that traffic accidents in this area have more than doubled in 2024, with 33 crashes recorded, compared to 16 in 2023 and 10 in 2022. A significant number of these incidents, 25 in total, occurred under wet or rainy conditions, highlighting the challenges that drivers face on slick roads.
In response to the alarming increase in accidents, the CHP has intensified patrols during adverse weather conditions and is collaborating with Caltrans to enhance road safety measures. Proposed improvements include better signage, road resurfacing, and additional barriers along the highway’s curves to mitigate risks for drivers.
The CHP is appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or has relevant information to contact the Buellton Area CHP office at (805) 691-6160. Lieutenant Jason Bronson, Commander of the Buellton Area CHP, expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy, calling the incident “a terrible tragedy during what should be a joyous season.”
As holiday travel continues, the heartbreaking loss of Asher Linden Tenud serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of exercising caution on the roads. Authorities are urging drivers to reduce their speeds, particularly during rainy or inclement weather, to prevent further tragedies in this high-risk area.
The community is mourning the loss of a young life and is coming together to offer support and condolences to Tenud's family. This incident underscores the need for continued efforts to improve road safety and protect all who travel on Highway 1.
