Lake County, CA – On the morning of Friday, November 14, 2025, a single-vehicle crash claimed the life of Gabriel Guarchaj-Ajtzalam, 30, according to The Modesto Bee, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 9:00 AM near Highway 20 east of New Long Valley Road.
Authorities said the white 2003 Chevy Express was traveling on a downhill curve when the driver appeared to lose control, causing the van to plunge over a steep embankment and overturn before coming to rest on its roof near milepost 41.
Guarchaj-Ajtzalam, who was riding in the front passenger seat, was ejected during the overturning. Emergency responders dispatched an air ambulance to the remote scene, but officials were unable to confirm whether he died at the scene or after transport.
Two additional occupants riding in the rear of the vehicle suffered moderate injuries. The driver and a front middle passenger escaped injury, according to CHP’s early findings.
Dispatch logs from the morning detailed the challenge of reaching the van, which had come to rest down the embankment, and documented subsequent requests for recovery units.
Investigators reported no indication that drugs or alcohol contributed to the incident. This is an ongoing investigation.
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.
Passenger Liability
Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming. As a neutral third party, an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate these emotional complexities.
California Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
