Chowchilla, CA – On the evening of Friday, October 3, 2025, a collision between a patrol vehicle and a big rig claimed the life of Chowchilla Police Officer Ray Barrantes, according to The Fresno Bee, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 10:30 PM at the intersection of State Route 152 and Road 13.
Investigators determined that Officer Barrantes was driving a marked Chowchilla Police Department patrol vehicle, a Ford Explorer, eastbound on Highway 152 in the No. 1 lane when the crash occurred. At the same time, a 36-year-old man from Firebaugh was driving a big rig hauling a double trailer loaded with tomatoes southbound on Road 13.
As the truck driver crossed the intersection, the front of the patrol vehicle struck the right side of the rear trailer. The impact caused the patrol car to become lodged beneath the trailer, scattering tomatoes across the roadway. Both vehicles came to rest, blocking all lanes on Road 13 and the south road edge of eastbound Highway 152.
Emergency personnel responded to the scene, but Officer Barrantes died from his injuries before he could be transported for further treatment. Authorities closed the roadway for several hours overnight as they conducted the investigation and cleared the scene.
Chowchilla Police Chief Jeff Palmer said the department is mourning the loss of a respected and dedicated officer who had served the community for many years. Chowchilla Mayor Kelly Smith ordered all city facility flags to be flown at half-staff through October 12.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a Wrongful Death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
California Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Truck Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
