Rancho Cordova, CA – On the late afternoon of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, a head-on collision killed Malakai Robert Piper, 21, of Turlock, and caused major injuries to two others, according to ABC10.

The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred shortly after 4:30 PM at the intersection of Grant Line Road and White Rock Road.

Investigators said Piper was driving a red Hyundai Elantra northbound on Grant Line Road when, for reasons still under investigation, he veered into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a tan Subaru Impreza. Emergency responders transported a boy passenger from the Hyundai and the Subaru driver to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.

Authorities confirmed that Piper died at the scene. CHP stated the boy passenger and Piper were not related. Officials have not determined whether alcohol or drugs contributed to the collision, and the investigation is ongoing.

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.

California Wrongful Death Lawyer

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