A driver died and a passenger was injured early Friday in a single-vehicle crash in northwest Santa Maria. 

Just before 3 a.m., Santa Maria police officers and firefighters were dispatched to the crash near the intersection of Western and Bunny avenues, police Sgt. Jason Zickuhr said Friday afternoon.

Officers arrived to find the driver dead at the scene near Oakley Park.

The passenger, whose name was not released, was taken to a local hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

The Police Department’s Traffic Unit was dispatched to investigate the crash.

“It was determined both excessive speed and alcohol were mostly likely the cause of the collision, but further investigation is needed,” Zickuhr said. 

The driver’s name was being withheld pending notification of relatives.

Zickuhr also thanked the residents in the neighborhood for their patience and helpfulness with the investigation, reminding people not to drink and drive after St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.