Bakersfield, CA – On the early morning of Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Timothy Joseph Moreno, 47, was killed in a single-vehicle crash in south Bakersfield, according to KGET.

Authorities said Moreno was driving a 2004 Kia Rio southbound on Wible Road, just north of Phillips Road, at an unknown speed. For reasons that remain under investigation, Moreno was unable to safely navigate a curve in the roadway.

Investigators reported that the vehicle continued straight, traveled off the roadway, and struck a tree. The impact caused severe injuries that proved fatal.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene and pronounced Moreno dead at approximately 6:30 AM. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Officials have not determined when the crash occurred, and it remains unclear how long the vehicle had been off the roadway before it was discovered. The California Highway Patrol and the Kern County Coroner’s Office are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Authorities have not confirmed whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the cause.

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.

Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer

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