Merced, CA (February 5, 2026) — The California Highway Patrol has released additional information related to the crash at Oakdale Road and Fisher Road in Merced County. The Merced CHP said:
“On February 5, 2026, at approximately 8:31 a.m., the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Merced Communication Center received a report of a head on crash in the area of Oakdale Road, east of Fisher Road. Officers from the CHP Merced Area Office responded to the scene.
A preliminary investigation determined a 21-year-old female out of Turlock, California, was driving a Toyota Prius sedan eastbound on Oakdale Road, east of Fisher Road at an unknown rate of speed. A 45-year-old male, later identified as Steve Pinocchio out of Merced, California, was driving a Chevrolet Suburban SUV westbound on Oakdale Road, east of Fisher Road traveling 50 mph. According to eyewitnesses and the involved, the driver of the Toyota was attempting to pass slower moving vehicles in foggy weather conditions. Pinocchio turned his vehicle to the right to avoid a crash, however he was unable to safely avoid the crash. The Chevrolet’s front end hit the Toyota’s front end within the westbound lane of Oakdale Road. After the crash, Good Samaritans stopped at the scene and performed CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on the female driver, but unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries. Pinocchio remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. Pinocchio and three juvenile passengers in the Chevrolet sustained moderate to major injuries and were transported to Mercy Medical Center for treatment.
Alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this crash. This crash remains under investigation. For media inquiries please contact the CHP Merced Area Public Information Officer, Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356-6608. If anyone has information regarding this crash, please contact Investigating Officer Gabriel Bautista at (209) 356-6600.
The CHP reminds motorist to slow down, manually turn on low-beam headlights, increase following distance, and avoid passing in dense fog conditions.”
No other information has been released.
