Bakersfield, CA – In the early hours of Thursday, September 25, 2025, a single-vehicle crash left Daniel Chavez Cruz, 24, dead after his vehicle collided with a tree, according to KBAK.

The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident took place around 1:34 AM near the 11500 block of Hageman Road.

Authorities said Cruz was partially ejected from a blue GMC Acadia when officers arrived at the scene. A preliminary investigation found that Cruz was traveling westbound at a high rate of speed when, for an unknown reason, he lost control of the vehicle and struck the tree.

Emergency responders confirmed that Cruz did not survive the impact, and the coroner officially identified him later that morning.

The crash highlights the dangers of high-speed driving and the severe injuries that can result from single-vehicle collisions. 

Authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine if any additional outside factors contributed to the fatal accident. 

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.

Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer

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