SANTA MARGARITA — A fatal solo-vehicle crash occurred early Thursday morning, Feb. 27, on State Route 58 east of Red Hill Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

At approximately 2:48 a.m., CHP officers responded to reports of the incident and found that the driver, identified as 33-year-old Atascadero resident Daniel LopezOrtiz, had been traveling eastbound in a 2006 Toyota Tacoma at a high rate of speed. Investigators determined that excessive speed caused the vehicle to miss a curve in the roadway, resulting in a collision with a tree.

LopezOrtiz succumbed to his injuries at the scene. No passengers were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Authorities believe alcohol may have been a factor. The CHP Templeton Area office is continuing its investigation.