Investigators on Monday continued to search for answers after a driver died when his vehicle crashed through railing on the Santa Cruz Wharf and plunged into the ocean.

Witnesses saw the vehicle drive off the wharf at about 9:45 a.m. Sunday. First responders rushed to the scene and tried to save the driver, identified as 65-year-old William Westerman of Scotts Valley. Crews ultimately managed to pull Westerman out of the water after about half an hour, but he was pronounced dead a short time later at the hospital. A dog found in the vehicle is being treated by animal services.

While authorities investigated Monday, city workers were busy repairing the damaged railing.

Santa Cruz Wharf Supervisor Britt Hoberg said the crash did not affect the portion of the wharf still being repaired aft

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