Bakersfield, CA. – On the evening of Sunday, December 14, 2025, a head-on two-vehicle collision claimed the life of 35-year-old John Anthony Johnson of Los Angeles and left another man with moderate to major injuries, according to KBAK, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 9:28 PM near northbound State Route 14 just north of Backus Road.
Authorities said Johnson was driving a white Chevrolet Malibu southbound in the number one lane when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle made an unsafe turning movement to the left. Investigators stated that the Malibu left the roadway, crossed the dirt center median, and entered the northbound lanes directly into oncoming traffic.
CHP said the Chevrolet then collided head-on with a blue Mercedes-Benz traveling northbound in the number one lane. The force of the crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and left occupants trapped inside, requiring emergency response and traffic control measures in the area.
Johnson sustained fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Kern County Coroner’s Office later identified him, while the driver of the Mercedes-Benz was transported for medical treatment with moderate to major injuries, according to CHP.
CHP Fatal logs show multiple lane closures and coordination with Caltrans and towing services as crews worked to clear the roadway and investigate the scene. The collision remains under investigation as officials continue to document the circumstances leading up to the crash.
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.
Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
