February 21, 2026 – San Benito County Sheriff's Office officials report that on February 17, 2026, Santa Cruz Regional 911 received an emergency call for service regarding two subjects who were attempting to cross a flooded river crossing onto Brown's Valley Road from a private ranch. Fire Department personnel and officers with the California Highway Patrol responded. They located a vehicle but could not locate any of the occupants.

The following morning, the driver of the vehicle, identified as Ramon Meza-Sesma, walked to the Paicines Ranch to summon help. It was then confirmed by first responders that Meza-Sesma's passenger, who was later positively identified as Wiliam Cesar Colaj Son, was still unaccounted for.

Colaj Son was last seen by Meza-Sesma when they were separated in deep, moving water after they exited the Toyota Camry which was now submerged. Meza-Sesma was transported to Hazel Hawkins Hospital to be evaluated. He was treated and released.

Deputies, Detectives, and San Benito County Search and Rescue volunteers responded to the area of Browns Valley Road and began coordinating a search effort. A short time later, Colaj Son was located approximately one mile downstream, and it appeared, from across the river, that Colaj Son was unconscious.

Detectives and Search and Rescue personnel were able to cross the swift moving water with the assistance of a local San Benito County resident, who selflessly provided safe transport across the river to retrieve Colaj Son's body. First responders and Detectives confirmed that Colaj Son was deceased. Colaj's family was on scene, and they were notified of the incident.

Meza-Sesma provided a statement to investigators at the hospital. This statement, combined with further evidence obtained during the investigation, led to Meza-Sesma being placed under arrest for gross vehicular manslaughter.

The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend its gratitude to the Hollister Fire Department and Cal Fire for their assistance in searching for Colaj Son and providing extra safety measures during the recovery efforts.

This tragedy serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by fast-moving water. We urge the public to avoid attempting to cross flooded roadways and rivers, especially following periods of heavy rainfall. The Sheriff's Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Wiliam Cesar Colaj Son during this difficult time.

Source: San Benito County Sheriff's Office