Bakersfield, CA – On the morning of Sunday, February 8, 2026, a collision resulted in the death of Martin De Santiago, 61, of Bakersfield, in front of Discovery Church, according to KBAK.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident took place around 11:40 AM in the 7000 block of White Lane.
Authorities said De Santiago had been traveling westbound and allegedly made an unprotected left turn in front of eastbound traffic when the crash occurred. He sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
He died from his injuries on February 11, three days after the crash. The Kern County Coroner’s Office notified the Bakersfield Police Department Traffic Division of his death and formally identified him.
Discovery Church, where De Santiago was a member, offered condolences in a social media post following the crash that has since been deleted.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Bakersfield Car Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law follows the principle of comparative negligence. This means that even if a driver is found partially at fault for an accident, such as by making an unprotected left turn, their surviving family members may still pursue compensation if the negligence of another driver also contributed to the crash. Investigators with California law enforcement examine the right of way, the speed of oncoming traffic, and other factors to determine what role each party may have played.
Regardless of the findings, De Santiago’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can provide the family with compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, and other damages related to the fatal accident.
Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, in the 7000 block of White Lane, contact a California wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
