LOS BANOS, CA (AUGUST 4TH, 2025) — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On August 1, 2025, at approximately 2:18 P.M., the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Los Banos Area office received and responded to a call of an overturned big rig.
Preliminary investigation indicates the driver of a Freightliner was traveling on Interstate 5 (I-5) southbound, south of Canyon Road at an undetermined speed. For reasons still under investigation, the driver made a left turning movement causing the Freightliner to cross the center median and enter the northbound lanes of I-5. As a result of the turning movement, the Freightliner overturned onto its side and spilled a large load of lumber across northbound lanes. Simultaneously, a driver of a Mercedes was traveling northbound on I-5 and struck the debris. The driver of the Mercedes was not injured. The driver of the Freightliner sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by emergency medical personnel.
It is unknown if alcohol and/or drug use contributed to the cause of the crash. However, the incident remains under investigation.
For any additional information, contact CHP Los Banos Area Public Information Officer Shannon Stiers at (209) 826-3811.
