Kern County, CA – On the afternoon of Thursday, April 9, 2026, a single-vehicle collision resulted in injuries that proved fatal to Bernice Ariza, 60, of Wofford Heights, according to KBAK, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 5:14 PM on Highway 155 west of Air Force Way.
Authorities said Ariza was driving a 2004 Toyota Camry westbound on Highway 155 at what was reported to be an unsafe speed when he was unable to navigate a curve in the roadway, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and strike a tree.
The vehicle caught fire following the impact, with bystanders at the scene attempting to pull Ariza from the burning car. A brush fire also ignited in the surrounding area as a result of the crash.
Ariza sustained severe injuries and was transported by Liberty Ambulance to the Democrat helicopter landing pad to await medical evacuation by helicopter.
He died from his injuries while awaiting the medevac helicopter’s arrival. The Kern County Coroner’s Office formally identified him following his death.
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.
California Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California car accident lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
