Former Mendocino Resident Dies in Highway 1 Crash

David Alexander Printz, 44, was moving to Florida when his vehicle left the road and struck a tree.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A former Mendocino County resident was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Highway 1 in Mendocino County on February 15, 2026. David Alexander Printz, 44, was in the process of moving from Anchor Bay, California to North Port, Florida when his 2003 GMC Sierra left the roadway and crashed into a tree. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident, but have ruled out alcohol, drugs, and weather as contributing factors.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of Highway 1, a winding coastal road that has seen its share of fatal accidents over the years. The loss of a life during what should have been a routine relocation raises concerns about road safety and the need for continued infrastructure improvements along this scenic but treacherous route.

The details

According to the California Highway Patrol, Printz was driving northbound on Highway 1 between Gualala and Point Arena when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a tree around 1 p.m. on February 15th. Printz was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash forced a road closure for over two hours as emergency responders from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office, South Coast Fire Department, Redwood Coast Fire Department, and South Coast Ambulance assisted.

  • The crash occurred around 1 p.m. on February 15, 2026.
  • Printz was in the process of moving from Anchor Bay, California to North Port, Florida in December 2025.

The players

David Alexander Printz

A 44-year-old former resident of Anchor Bay, California who was in the process of moving to North Port, Florida when he was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Highway 1 in Mendocino County.

California Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency investigating the fatal crash on Highway 1.

Mendocino County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that assisted at the scene of the crash.

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The takeaway

This tragic accident on Highway 1 serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety, especially on winding coastal routes like this one that have a history of fatal crashes. While the exact cause is still under investigation, it highlights the need for continued infrastructure improvements and driver education to prevent such devastating losses of life.