Madera, CA – Four people were killed, and a fifth was critically injured, following a single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning, February 15, 2026, according to KSEE.
Madera County Sheriff’s Deputies were initially dispatched just after 1 a.m. to the area of El Vado Drive and Avenue 18 ½ after receiving reports of individuals breaking into vehicles. When deputies arrived, they located a vehicle matching the description provided by callers.
Investigators said the vehicle immediately fled the area at a high rate of speed. Approximately three miles away, near Highway 99 and Avenue 17, the vehicle lost control and crashed.
Responding deputies discovered a single-vehicle collision at that location. Four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. A fifth passenger, identified as a male, was airlifted to a hospital and remains in critical condition.
The California Highway Patrol will lead the investigation into the fatal crash. The Madera County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the reported vehicle burglaries that preceded the incident.
Anyone with information related to the vehicle burglary investigation is encouraged to contact the Madera County Sheriff’s Office.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages through a Wrongful Death Claim.
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 navigate these emotional complexities.
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.
