Livingston, CA – On the early morning of Monday, July 21, 2025, a head-on collision resulted in the death of Darrion Thompson, 21, of Elk Grove, and caused serious injuries to four passengers, according to ABC10, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the crash occurred around 2:12 AM on southbound Highway 99, just south of Hammatt Avenue, involving three vehicles.

According to CHP, Thompson was driving a 2020 Chevrolet Malibu northbound in the southbound lanes when he collided head-on with a 2020 Toyota Camry. The impact pushed Thompson’s vehicle into the path of a big rig, which struck the Malibu’s passenger side before coming to a stop.

Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene. His four passengers, aged 19 to 21, were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from moderate to major. The identities of the injured passengers have not been released.

Both the driver of the Camry and the big rig driver were uninjured. Authorities say the big rig struck only the trailer component, limiting further damage. The CHP has not yet determined if drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash, and the incident remains under investigation.

The Merced County Coroner’s Office has confirmed Thompson’s identity, and next of kin have been notified. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information is asked to contact the CHP Merced Area Office.

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.

Passenger Liability

Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Wrongful Death claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming. As a neutral third party, an experienced personal injury attorney can help to navigate these emotional complexities.

California Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.