Los Altos, CA — In the late afternoon of Thursday, October 22, 2026, a multi-vehicle collision involving a wrong-way driver left two drivers dead, according to KRON.
At approximately 5:09 PM, California Highway Patrol’s Redwood City office received reports of the fatal accident on southbound Interstate 280 near Foothill Expressway.
According to investigators, a Lexus traveling northbound on I-280 crossed the concrete median, for reasons not yet determined, and entered the southbound lanes into oncoming traffic. The Lexus collided with four other vehicles before coming to a stop.
The driver of one of the other vehicles and the Lexus driver were pronounced dead at the scene. Although no other injuries have been reported, emergency responders transported a third driver to a nearby hospital as a precaution.
Authorities closed all southbound lanes of I-280 for debris to be cleared from the crash site, with the assistance of Caltrans. During the closure, traffic was diverted at Magdalena Avenue. All lanes have since re-opened.
The identities of the drivers involved in the collision have not yet been released. This is an ongoing investigation.
California Fatal Car Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
If the Lexus driver is found at fault in the accident described above, the family of the other driver who lost their life may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can provide compensation for damages such as funeral expenses and the loss of support and companionship provided by the deceased.
Should the negligence of an outside party, such as the vehicle manufacturer or a government entity responsible for roadway maintenance, is found to share liability in this accident, the family of the Lexus driver may also have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Any settlement would be reduced in proportion to the driver’s own liability, but that would not bar them from seeking compensation.
California Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been affected by an accident similar to the one described here on southbound I-280 near Foothill Expressway, a California wrongful death lawyer would be happy to answer any questions and provide a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation.
