A somber yet deeply heartfelt candlelight vigil was held Thursday evening at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, honoring the three students who tragically lost their lives in a car crash on Sunday.

The victims, Jake Curtis (18) of Goleta, Michael Ochsner (17), and Alexander Wood (15) of Santa Barbara, were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, which took place on State Route 1 near Rancho San Julian, a stretch of the highway between Lompoc and Gaviota. The collision involved four vehicles and resulted in injuries to four other individuals.

Jake, Michael, and Alexander were all students at Dos Pueblos High School and lifeguards with Santa Barbara County. They had spent the day at Jalama Beach completing lifeguard training before the accident occurred. The tragic loss has deeply shaken the community, with hundreds gathering at the school’s Greek Theater to honor their memory.

The vigil was coordinated by student leaders and drew over a thousand attendees, including friends, family, classmates, and community members. Candles illuminated the Greek Theater, symbolizing a collective outpouring of grief and remembrance.

Principal Bill Woodard addressed the crowd with visible emotion. “You are not alone in this truth, you are not alone in this,” he said. “To the boys’ families and closest friends — we are here with you. Your pain is our pain, and your sons will always be a part of the Dos Pueblos community.”

Woodard continued, reflecting on the character and legacy of the students. “They were bright, kind, committed students. They were lifeguards, classmates, athletes, students, brothers, sons, and friends.”

The vigil was marked by heartfelt speeches from the boys’ friends and family members, sharing stories, memories, and tributes to their lives. Tears flowed freely among the attendees as the impact of the loss was realized—but so was the sense of unity and support.

Dos Pueblos High School shared a tribute on Instagram following the vigil: “Beautiful ceremony tonight. We are a community that lifts each other up. Much love to the friends and families.”

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, but the vigil demonstrated the strength and resilience of Dos Pueblos High and its extended family, as it came together to honor the lives of Jake Curtis, Michael Ochsner, and Alexander Wood.

Dos Pueblos High stated it is offering mental health counseling for anyone who is in need. The campus Wellness Center is open to students and parents as well as their Compassion Center where anyone can meet with a mental health professional, ask questions, and receive guidance.

Additionally, the school’s Wellness Center pantry offers supplies such as water, tissue, and snacks. The community is encouraged to donate items for those in need.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of community support for our students and staff. You would be so impressed by the way our students and staff are rallying together to help each other through this challenging time,” the school stated in a community post.

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