Deadly Collision Saturday on Highway 46 Crash Near Wasco
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Jan. 20, 2026) — A 20-year-old man died, and two other people were injured Saturday afternoon in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 46, just west of Wasco, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Officers were dispatched at approximately 1:16 p.m. on Jan. 17, 2026, to Highway 46 near Smith Avenue following reports of a crash involving a passenger car and a pickup truck.
CHP investigators said a 2003 Toyota Camry traveling eastbound crossed into oncoming traffic for reasons that remain under investigation. The Camry collided head-on with a westbound 2006 Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 60-year-old man. Authorities said the Silverado’s driver attempted to steer to the right in an effort to avoid the crash, but the vehicles struck each other in the westbound lane.
The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
The driver of the Chevrolet and a female passenger sustained moderate to major injuries and were transported to a Bakersfield hospital for treatment.
According to CHP, alcohol or drugs are not believed to have played a role in the collision. The investigation remains ongoing.
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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
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