12.16.2022 | 3:40 PM | SILVERADO - The driver of a red Ferrari California was killed in a high-speed crash with two other vehicles that split the sportscar in half, Friday evening.

The deadly crash was reported on Santiago Canyon Road south of Limestone Spur around 3:40 PM when witnesses say the driver of a Tesla attempted to overtake the red 2015 Ferrari California driven by 71-year-old Robert Joseph Nicoletti, of Rancho Santa Margarita.

The southbound Ferrari reportedly accelerated in attempt to prevent the Tesla from passing, leading to a head-on crash involving a northbound 2012 Mazda 3 and 2021 Toyota Venza, witnesses said.

Police, who cited unsafe speed as a factor in the collision, reported that Ferrari split in half as a result of the head-on impact. Nicoletti, the solo occupant of the Ferrari, was pronounced deceased at the scene by medics.

Both remaining drivers, along with a passenger in the Toyota, were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Their injuries were described as minor.

The Tesla apparently left the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement.

Alcohol was not believed to have played a role in the collision, police said.

All lanes of Santiago Canyon Road were closed for several hours while police investigated the deadly crash.

Witnesses of the events leading up to the collision are asked to contact the California Highway Patrol's Santa Ana Office at (714) 567-6000.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Orange County Crime Stoppers by calling (855) TIP-OCCS or by visiting their website at www.occrimestoppers.org.

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