Madera County, CA – On the evening of Saturday, September 13, 2025, a van driver allegedly ran a stop sign at a rural intersection and collided with a big rig, killing three children and injuring others, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 6:00 PM at the intersection of Road 24 and Avenue 7, west of Ripperdan.
Investigators determined that a van carrying five occupants traveled southbound on Road 24 as it approached a stop sign. At the same time, a big rig hauling two trailers moved westbound along Avenue 7. The van entered the intersection, coming directly in the path of the big rig.
The big rig broadsided the van with devastating force, throwing two passengers, a 6-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy, from the vehicle. The boy sustained fatal injuries at the scene despite rapid response from emergency crews.
Paramedics rushed the girl to Valley Children’s Hospital with severe trauma. Doctors attempted to save her, but the extent of her injuries proved overwhelming, and she died shortly after arrival.
Three additional occupants of the van suffered moderate to major injuries. Among them was a 17-year-old girl who later died at the hospital that night. Authorities confirmed that the remaining victims continue to receive medical treatment.
The big rig driver also suffered injuries in the violent collision. Medical teams transported him to a nearby hospital for further care. CHP officials stated his condition was not life-threatening.
Emergency responders closed the intersection for several hours as they secured the site. Fire crews assisted with patient care and worked to clear debris from the rural roadway. Tow operators removed both the wrecked van and the heavily damaged big rig before the intersection reopened.
Authorities with the California Highway Patrol confirmed that alcohol and drugs did not contribute to the crash. Investigators continue to reconstruct the collision to determine why the van failed to stop.
The three children who lost their lives have not yet been publicly identified. Officials said they will release their names once they notify family members.
Stop Sign Laws
California Law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at a Stop sign (California Vehicle Code 22450). Drivers may only enter the intersection when it appears safe for all parties to do so (California Vehicle Code 21802).
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a Wrongful Death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
California Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Truck Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
