Bakersfield, CA (March 4, 2024) Highway 65 in Bakersfield turned into a scene of chaos and destruction on Friday evening, March 1st. A collision involving at least three vehicles left one person dead and another one injured, according to authorities. The person responsible fled the scene, officers said.
The fatal collision occurred on Highway 65 near Highway 155 in Bakersfield, around 5:30 p.m. The California Highway Patrol reported that a semi-truck was hauling a fifth-wheel trailer north on Highway 65 when the trailer lost its left wheel. The wheel bounced across the southbound lanes of Highway 65 before hitting an International big rig, officers said. The tire then bounced back over the north lanes and hit a Toyota. The driver of the big rig lost control after being hit by the tire, and swerved into the northbound lanes of traffic. That’s when it slammed into the Honda, according to the California Highway Patrol.
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Flashing lights could be seen as emergency crews raced toward the collision on Highway 65. Sirens grew louder until they reached the destination and were met with a chaotic scene. Paramedics raced to the Toyota and found a 52-year-old Bakersfield man inside. They discovered that he had been killed in the collision and he was, sadly, pronounced dead at the scene.
A 30-year-old man from Brea was behind the wheel of the International big rig. He sustained moderate injuries in the collision and was taken to a local hospital to receive treatment, according to the CHP.
The driver of the truck with the fifth-wheel who caused this chaotic and deadly accident, didn’t stop. Officers said he continued heading north on Highway 65, leaving a trail of destruction behind him.
Investigators are working to find the vehicle responsible as well as the driver. They are asking that anyone with information to come forward and help bring this suspect to justice.
All of us at Accident News Now extend heartfelt sympathies to the family of the man who was so tragically killed in this accident. Our team of legal professionals is here to assist you during this difficult time and to answer any questions you may have.
