Amador County, CA – On the early morning of Saturday, January 24, 2026, a head-on collision fatally injured an infant identified as Issac Wilson Shirley of Jackson, according to FOX40.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred around 2:08 AM on State Route 16 east of Carbondale Road during dense fog conditions.
Investigators said a black 2018 Hyundai Elantra driven eastbound by Juliana Aranda, 24, of Jackson, crossed over the double yellow lines into the westbound lane. It then collided head-on with a silver 2016 Honda Fit driven by Sandy So, 33, also of Jackson. So attempted to brake and steer onto the shoulder but was apparently unable to avoid the collision.
Emergency responders extricated So from the vehicle, and both drivers sustained major injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Shirley, who was also injured in the crash, was transported for medical care but later died on the morning of January 29, 2026, at Kaiser Permanente in South Sacramento, according to the Sacramento County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities stated that alcohol or drugs are not believed to be factors, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Ongoing Investigations
Victims of traffic accidents and their families should be aware that authorities may fail to note or even misinterpret critical evidence at a crash site. One of the services that a Personal Injury Attorney can provide is to pursue follow-up investigations, which can reveal additional evidence to correct any errors made by previous investigators.
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.
