CHULA VISTA (CBS 8/CNS) - Two women were killed and a man injured Thursday in a head-on crash involving a pair of SUVs in Chula Vista, the California Highway Patrol said. Now the identities of the two women have been revealed. Diane Defenbaugh her daughter Kathryn were both veterinarians and best friends.
A 27-year-old Spring Valley man driving a blue GMC Yukon in the northbound lane of state Route 125 at San Miguel Ranch Road hit the guardrail, the CHP said. The Yukon then crossed over the dirt center divider at about 10:15 a.m. and collided with a southbound blue Chevrolet Suburban. The Suburban came to a rest blocking the No. 2 lane while the Yukon was overturned on the right shoulder embankment, officials said.
The Suburban was occupied by 63-year-old Defenbaugh and her 29-year-old daughter, both from La Mesa. Both women were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the CHP.
Officials said Kathryn was celebrating her birthday Thursday.
Kathryn worked at the Banfield Pet Hospital. They sent CBS News 8 a statement saying, in part:
"Not only is this a loss for Banfield and our clients, but the untimely passing of Dr. Kathryn Defenbaugh, and her mother, who was also a well-respected veterinarian, signifies a loss for the entire San Diego veterinary community. Our hearts go out to Dr. Defenbaugh's family, friends and colleagues."
The injured man was taken to Scripps Mercy Hospital with minor injuries, officials said.
Southbound lanes on the 125 as well as the connector from state Route 54 were closed for hours during the investigation. The roadways were later reopened in the early evening, authorities said.