Kern County, CA – In the early hours of Friday, July 10, 2026, a collision resulted in the death of David Vargas Vasquez, 17, of Lost Hills, on Lost Hills Road, according to KGET, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 11:23 PM on northbound Lost Hills Road south of King Street.
Authorities said Vasquez was riding a gas-powered mini pocket bike northbound on Lost Hills Road when a 63-year-old Sacramento man driving a 2010 Chevrolet Express van, also traveling northbound, struck the rear of the bike.
Vasquez was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:49 PM. The Kern County Coroner’s Office formally identified him following his death.
The Kern County Coroner was notified and responded, arriving at approximately 3:00 AM. An evidence tow was requested for the vehicle involved, which was transported to a tow yard following the conclusion of on-scene proceedings.
Alcohol and drugs are not believed to have been factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
Kern County Bicycle Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law requires drivers to exercise a heightened duty of care around bicyclists, particularly minors, remaining alert and maintaining a safe following distance when riders are present on the roadway. When a driver strikes the rear of a bicycle and causes the death of a young rider, investigators with California law enforcement examine the driver’s conduct, visibility conditions, and other factors to determine liability.
Regardless of the findings, Vasquez’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.
Kern County Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, on Lost Hills Road south of King Street, contact a California wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
