Merced County, CA (February 5, 2026) — A deadly head-on crash in Merced County left one woman dead and four others hospitalized Thursday morning. The collision happened around 8:30 a.m. at Oakdale Road and Fisher Road.
Investigators say a 21-year-old woman driving an SUV attempted to pass another vehicle when she entered the oncoming lane. Her vehicle then collided head-on with a Chevrolet Suburban traveling in the opposite direction.
The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Suburban and three children riding in that vehicle were taken to the hospital. Their conditions have not been released.
Officials say heavy morning fog was a factor, reducing visibility at the time of the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and the woman’s identity has not yet been made public.
