Shafter, CA – The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified 22-year-old Bryant Kenneth Chavez of Shafter as the motorcyclist who was killed in a two-vehicle collision on the morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the crash occurred around 3:47 AM at the intersection of Central Valley Highway (Highway 43) and Burbank Street, just south of the city of Shafter in Kern County.
According to investigators, Chavez was riding a 2025 Honda motorcycle eastbound on Burbank Street and was approaching the intersection at a slow speed. At the same time, the driver of a 2000 Chevrolet Silverado was heading southbound on Highway 43 at approximately 55 miles per hour. Chavez reportedly failed to make a complete stop at a posted stop sign and entered the intersection directly in front of the oncoming truck.
Authorities say the driver of the Silverado attempted to avoid a collision by swerving left, but was unable to avoid striking the motorcycle. The left side of the truck hit Chavez, ejecting him from the motorcycle and causing fatal injuries. Emergency personnel responded to the scene and pronounced Chavez dead on arrival.
The driver of the Chevrolet Silverado remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement. CHP stated that the driver was not injured in the crash, and there were no signs that alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to review evidence and witness statements.
Stop Sign Laws
California Law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at a Stop sign (California Vehicle Code 22450). Drivers may only enter the intersection when it appears safe for all parties to do so (California Vehicle Code 21802).
Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence
Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility. Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
