Bakersfield, CA – In the early hours of Thursday, October 2, 2025, a truck allegedly ran a stop sign in south Bakersfield and caused a fatal crash that left one person dead and two others injured, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred around 5:18 AM at the intersection of South H Street and Houghton Road, an area controlled by posted stop signs.
Investigators said that a 2011 Chevrolet Impala driven by a 33-year-old man stopped at the intersection before turning south onto South H Street. At the same time, a white 2008 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling eastbound on Houghton Road. Authorities said that evidence suggests that the Silverado may have failed to stop at the stop sign and struck the Impala on the right side.
The impact caused the Silverado to overturn and come to rest on its side. Officials said the driver fled the scene on foot and has not been located.
The 33-year-old Impala driver sustained minor injuries. A 45-year-old passenger suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Kern Medical. A 26-year-old passenger who sat in the right front seat sustained major injuries and died at the scene.
Authorities have not determined whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing, and CHP asks anyone with information to come forward.
Ongoing Investigations
Victims of traffic accidents and their families should be aware that authorities may fail to note or even misinterpret critical evidence at a crash site. One of the services that a Personal Injury Attorney can provide is to pursue follow-up investigations, which can reveal additional evidence to correct any errors made by previous investigators.
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
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.
Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
