BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A 20-year-old man died, and two others were injured after a crash on Highway 46 near Wasco Saturday afternoon.
The California Highway Patrol said on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at around 1:16 p.m., officers were called to Highway 46, west of Smith Avenue for a report of a crash involving two vehicles.
CHP said a preliminary investigation found that a 20-year-old man was driving a 2003 Toyota Camry eastbound on Highway 46, west of Smith Avenue. A 60-year-old man was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on Highway 46, west of Smith Avenue approaching the Toyota.
According to CHP. for reasons still under investigation, the driver of the Toyota allowed his vehicle to cross into the westbound lane, directly into the path of the Chevrolet. The driver of the Chevrolet attempted to turn to the right to avoid the Toyota, however, the front of the Toyota struck the front of the Chevrolet in the westbound lane of Highway 46.
Emergency medical personnel responded and pronounced the 20-year-old driver of the Toyota dead at the scene.
The driver of the Chevrolet and his passenger, a woman, sustained moderate to major injuries and were taken to a hospital in Bakersfield.
Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
CHP said at this time, alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this crash.