Yesterday's drive through downtown San Jose turned deadly when a four-car chain-reaction crash on Highway 87 killed a 63-year-old man and sent at least one other driver to the hospital, clogging traffic near the busy I-280 interchange.
The collision unfolded around 3:15 PM on northbound State Highway 87 just south of Interstate 280. Investigators say a 2003 Nissan Frontier slammed into the back of a 2021 Toyota Sienna, shoving the minivan into two other vehicles. The Sienna's driver was taken to a hospital and later died, while the Nissan's driver escaped with only minor injuries, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Authorities have not yet released the victim's name, pending notification of next of kin.
Highway 87's Recent Crashes
The northbound 87 corridor near downtown has seen more than its share of heartbreak lately, with a string of serious collisions rattling regular commuters and traffic-safety advocates. In December, a multi-vehicle crash on the same stretch killed a mother and her baby, a tragedy that underscored how fast congestion and speed can turn into catastrophe on this corridor, as reported by Hoodline.
What Officials Say
The California Highway Patrol said alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in Sunday's collision, and the exact cause remains under investigation. Two lanes on southbound Highway 87 were shut down for about two hours while crews cleared wreckage and debris, and CHP is asking anyone who saw the crash or has dash-cam footage to contact the San Jose office at 408-961-0900, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Investigators are expected to closely examine vehicle damage and any available video before determining what triggered the pileup. Drivers moving through the I-280 and Highway 87 interchange should brace for lingering delays while cleanup and any follow-up work continue.
