Colfax, CA – On the morning of Saturday, June 21, 2025, a head-on collision involving a wrong-way driver on Interstate 80 resulted in fatal injuries to two people, according to The Sacramento Bee, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred just before 8:00 AM on eastbound Interstate 80 near the State Route 174 off-ramp in the Colfax area.
Initial investigation determined that a sedan traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes collided head-on with a big rig, leading to a fiery crash that left both vehicles heavily damaged.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene and found one vehicle fully engulfed in flames. Both individuals involved in the collision were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not yet been released by the authorities, pending notification of next of kin.
As a result of the crash, all eastbound lanes of I-80 were closed at Canyon Way for more than an hour. CHP officers and Placer County deputies diverted traffic off the highway while Caltrans assisted with roadway cleanup and sign alerts. The roadway was reopened by 9:22 AM.
CHP investigators continue to examine the cause of the collision, including whether impairment, distraction, or other factors played a role. Witnesses to the incident or anyone with relevant information are encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.
