February 16, 2026 – Sierra County Sheriff's Office officials report that on February 15, 2026, at approximately 7:31 p.m., the California Highway Patrol was notified of a vehicle traveling the wrong direction on U.S. Highway 395. Callers reported a southbound vehicle driving in the northbound lanes between the Agricultural Inspection Station and the California–Nevada state line.
Multiple 911 notifications were received reporting the wrong-way vehicle. The California Highway Patrol (CHP), Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP), and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office were notified as the vehicle continued traveling against traffic toward Nevada.
At approximately 7:36 p.m., reports were received of a head-on traffic collision just north of the state line in Sierra County. Initial information indicated one vehicle was on fire with possible occupants trapped inside. Washoe County Sheriff’s Office transferred a caller to Sierra County dispatch reporting the vehicle fire.
Truckee Meadows Fire and REMSA Ambulance were notified and responded. Deputies from the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office were also dispatched and responded to the scene. Upon arrival of emergency personnel, it was confirmed that a head-on collision had occurred between a tan Subaru Impreza and a white SUV in the northbound lanes of Highway 395.
Emergency responders located two critically injured drivers, one in each vehicle. CPR was initiated on one driver, while the other was found unresponsive and trapped inside their vehicle. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders, both drivers were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The identities of those involved are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
The California Highway Patrol is leading the collision investigation, and the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office is conducting the Coroner’s investigation.
Highway 395 was impacted for several hours while emergency personnel worked the scene and conducted the investigation.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the families and friends affected by this tragic incident. The cause of the collision remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
Source & photos: Sierra County Sheriff's Office
