BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Two people died after CHP says they lost control and were broadsided by a Bakersfield man driving a semi-truck in Madera Thursday night.
The California Highway Patrol said on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at around 6:14 p.m., CHP officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on southbound Highway 99, south of Avenue 12 in Madera.
CHP said a preliminary investigation found that a 37-year-old Selma man was driving a silver 2002 Honda Civic, southbound on Highway 99, south of Avenue 12 within the number one lane, at an unknown speed. A 29-year-old Selma woman was seated in the right-front passenger seat of the Honda.
A 33-year-old Bakersfield man was driving a 2023 blue International semi-truck, pulling an enclosed 53-foot trailer, southbound on Highway 99, south of Avenue 12, within the number two lane.
According to CHP, for reasons still under investigation, the driver of the Honda lost control of the vehicle. The Honda continued out of control in a southwesterly direction and veered into the number two lane, directly in front of the semi-truck’s path. The driver of the semi-truck applied the vehicles brakes but was not able to avoid the crash. As a result, the front of the semi-truck broadsided the right side of the Honda, according to CHP.
The driver and passenger of the Honda died. The driver of the semi-truck was not hurt.
CHP said everyone involved was wearing their seatbelts.
CHP said alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be a factor. This crash remains under investigation.
CHP Madera emphasized the importance of not being distracted while driving. CHP said in a social post, “Distractions behind the wheel can change lives in an instant. Whether it’s a phone, food, or adjusting the radio, keep your eyes up, hands on the steering wheel, and mind on the road. Your attention is the most important safety feature your vehicle has.”