A fatal crash shut down a key stretch of Lakeville Highway near Highway 37 southeast of Petaluma yesterday, tangling the commute and drawing a swarm of emergency and utility crews. Witnesses and early reports said a small grass fire flared near the wreck and that power equipment at the scene was damaged.
The collision was reported shortly before 3:30 PM on southbound Lakeville Highway near Cannon Lane, according to The Press Democrat. Initial accounts indicated a single vehicle was involved, and the California Highway Patrol had not released details about the victim as of that report.
Closures and detours
All lanes of Lakeville Highway were shut in both directions at the Highway 37 junction, and the Petaluma Police Department issued a traffic alert urging drivers to find alternate routes. Caltrans set up road closures at the intersection while crews worked the scene, according to Caltrans QuickMap.
Downed pole and power outage
Early reports indicated the crash knocked down a utility pole, prompting Pacific Gas & Electric crews to respond and begin repairs. Roughly 80 customers in the area were shown without power in connection with the incident during early reporting, according to PG&E.
Investigation
Officials estimated the closure could be lifted within 60 to 90 minutes while investigators documented the scene, according to The Press Democrat. The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation and is asking anyone with information or video related to the crash to contact CHP.
