A San Joaquin County father was killed and two family members seriously injured in a head-on collision on Highway 33 last night, shutting down the rural roadway for several hours while first responders and tow crews cleared the scene.
What officials say
CBS Sacramento reported that, according to the California Highway Patrol, a Chevrolet pickup traveling southeast on Highway 33 just before 6:30 p.m. drifted into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a Ford van.
Officers told CBS Sacramento that the van’s driver, a father traveling with his family, died at the scene. His daughter and her mother were transported to local hospitals with serious injuries but are expected to survive. The crash closed Highway 33 for several hours while investigators documented the scene and crews removed the damaged vehicles.
Investigation details
The California Highway Patrol told CBS Sacramento that the Chevrolet pickup driver was hospitalized with moderate injuries. Investigators indicated they do not currently suspect alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
Road safety and local context
Highway 33, a two-lane rural road running through agricultural areas of the Central Valley, has a history of serious accidents involving speed, low visibility, and farm traffic. A New Year’s Day 2021 crash near Coalinga that killed nine people, including seven children, highlighted the dangers on sections of SR 33.
Investigation and how to report tips
The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and is asking anyone with information to reach out through its website. Local outlets are expected to share more details as authorities release updates on the crash and the condition of the survivors.
.jpg){kind=link}