SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. — A major early-morning collision involving four vehicles and two semi-trucks caused a closure on southbound Highway 101 near the Sheffield Drive exit on Thursday.
The crash happened at approximately 1:40 a.m. on September 24, 2026, according to Montecito Fire.
Despite the number of vehicles involved, no injuries were reported.
Six Vehicles Involved in Highway 101 Crash
Emergency crews responded to southbound Highway 101 near the Sheffield Drive exit after the collision was reported.
Four passenger vehicles and two semi-trucks were involved, bringing the total number of vehicles in the crash to six.
The collision left debris across the roadway and caused a fuel leak, creating additional hazards for motorists and emergency crews.
Because of the conditions, southbound lanes were closed at Sheffield Drive while crews worked to clear the scene.
Traffic Diverted at San Ysidro
Southbound traffic was being diverted at San Ysidro as crews responded to the crash.
The closure was expected to cause delays for motorists traveling through the area during the morning commute.
An estimated reopening time had not been provided in the initial reports.
Drivers traveling through Santa Barbara County were advised to allow extra time, use alternate routes where possible and follow instructions from emergency personnel.
No Injuries Reported
Although the crash involved six vehicles, including two semi-trucks, authorities reported no injuries.
There were also no reported fatalities or serious injuries connected to the collision in the initial emergency response.
The main concerns at the scene were the fuel spill, roadway debris and removal of the damaged vehicles.
Highway 101 Closure Continues
Crews must clear the debris and address the fuel leak before the affected portion of Highway 101 can safely reopen.
The exact cause of the collision had not been released.
Motorists should avoid the affected section of southbound Highway 101 and follow directions from the California Highway Patrol and other emergency crews at the scene.
Drivers should expect possible delays until the roadway is cleared and reopened.
Traffic Alert for Santa Barbara County
The crash created a significant disruption for early-morning travelers using southbound Highway 101.
Anyone planning to travel through the Sheffield Drive area should check for updated traffic information and be prepared for changing conditions.
The roadway will remain restricted until crews determine that the fuel spill, debris and vehicles involved in the collision have been safely cleared.
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