Suspected DUI Driver Causes Major Injury Traffic Crash on SR-140 

January 27, 2026 – Merced County, CA – Merced CHP officials report that on January 25, 2026, at approximately 7:29 p.m., Merced Communication Center (MCC) received a report of a head on crash in the area of State Route 140 east of Rogers Road. Upon arrival on scene, CHP officers determined this to be a two-vehicle head on crash with major injuries. Preliminary investigation determined Francisco Nicholas Juan, 46, of Merced, CA, was driving a 2011 Toyota Prius at an unknown rate of speed eastbound on State Route 140 east of Rogers Road. A 25-year-old adult female out of Newman, CA, was driving a 2011 Nissan Altima at approximately 55 mph westbound on State Route 140 east of Rogers Road. A 30-year-old adult female out of Newman, CA, was also traveling in the right front passenger seat of the Nissan. As the vehicles approached each other, for unknown reasons Mr. Juan allowed the Toyota to cross over solid double yellow lines into the westbound lane of State Route 140 and crashing his Toyota head on into the Nissan. Both occupants of the Nissan sustained major injuries because of the crash and were transported by air to Modesto area hospitals for their injuries. Mr. Juan sustained major injuries because of the crash and was transported by air to Memorial Medical Center, Modesto, CA. All occupants were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Mr. Juan was determined to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash and was subsequently arrested for Felony DUI.

This traffic crash is under investigation, for media inquiries please contact Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356-6608. If anyone has information regarding this crash, you can contact Investigating Officer Jose Escobar at (209) 356-6600.

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

Source: Merced CHP