Sacramento, California - Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued the following statement regarding the death of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) transportation civil engineer Oscar Vargas:

“Anne and I were saddened to learn of the death of Oscar Vargas, who worked day in and day out to make the roads safer for Californians. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues mourning this tragedy.”

Oscar Vargas, 54, of Chula Vista, died today in a single-vehicle accident on Interstate 8 as he returned from working the night shift.

Vargas was a 29-year veteran of the department. He is survived by his wife, Marie, and two adult children, Oskar and Christian.

In honor of Vargas, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.