October 8, 2025 – Merced County, CA – Merced CHP officials report that on October 7, 2025, at approximately 6:21 a.m., Merced Communications Center (MCC) received a report of a head-on injury traffic crash involving four vehicles in the area of State Route 59 south of Oakdale Road. Upon arrival at the scene, CHP officers determined this to be a two-vehicle head on crash with one fatality.

Preliminary investigation determined that an adult male was driving a 2012 Ford Fusion sedan southbound SR-59, south of Oakdale Road at an unknown rate of speed. A 30-year-old male out of Merced CA, was driving a 2026 Western dump truck northbound on SR-59, south of Oakdale Road at approximately 55 mph approaching the Ford sedan. For an unknown reason, the driver of the Ford allowed the vehicle to crossover into the northbound lane and crashed into the dump truck’s driver side. After the crash, the dump truck veered off the roadway and onto the west shoulder of SR-59. The Ford sedan became disabled within the southbound lane of SR-59, south of Oakdale Road. The unknown male driver of the Ford sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the crash scene. The dump truck driver did not sustain any injuries and was cooperative with the investigation.

The cause for the crash is still under investigation and alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this traffic crash.

For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356-6608. If anyone witnessed the collision or have information regarding the events leading up to it, please call Investigating Officer Chad Williams (209) 356-6600.

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind all motorists that driving without distractions and staying focused is crucial because it helps prevent crashes, protects lives, and ensures the safety of everyone on the road. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Source: Merced CHP