Tributes to Jake Curtis:
With unimaginable sorrow, we mourn the tragic loss of three young lives from Dos Pueblos High School: senior Jake Curtis, junior Michael Ochsner, and sophomore Alexander Wood. These vibrant students were taken far too soon in a fatal vehicle collision on Highway 1 Sunday evening, leaving a community heartbroken and searching for words in the face of such deep loss.
Jake Curtis, remembered as a kind, bright, and driven senior, was on the threshold of graduation — a young man full of promise and potential. Michael Ochsner, a junior, brought joy and energy to every room, a loyal friend and a dedicated student. Alexander Wood, a sophomore, was just beginning to make his mark — a curious, kind soul with so much ahead of him.
Each of these young men had families, friends, dreams, and futures that were tragically cut short. The impact of their passing is profound, leaving behind a ripple of grief through Dos Pueblos High School and the greater Goleta community. They were more than students — they were teammates, classmates, brothers, and friends.
In the words of Principal Bill Woodard, “We want to extend our utmost sympathy to the family and friends of these three students.” The school has opened a compassion center in the Wellness Center, where grief counselors and support from the Santa Barbara Response Network are available to help students and staff process this devastating loss. These services will continue in the coming days as the community leans on each other for strength.
During this time of sorrow, may we come together to honor the memories of Jake, Michael, and Alexander — to remember their laughter, their kindness, and the joy they brought to those around them. Our hearts go out to their families, friends, teachers, and all who knew and loved them. May they find comfort in shared memories and in the arms of a community united in grief. Rest in peace, Jake, Michael, and Alexander. You will never be forgotten.