Fiery Crash Near Bakersfield Leaves 1 Dead on Highway 119
Posted on May 16, 2025 Written By: Donald Stevenson
One Dead in Fiery Crash Involving Box Truck and SUV on Taft Highway Near 5 Freeway
BAKERSFIELD, CA (May 13, 2025) — A fatal collision involving a box truck and an SUV erupted into a fire Tuesday afternoon on Highway 119, claiming at least one life and prompting an emergency response west of Bakersfield, authorities said.
The crash occurred around 4:47 p.m. near the intersection of Highway 119 (Taft Highway) and Coles Levee Road, just east of Tupman Road, according to the California Highway Patrol’s Buttonwillow station. The vehicles involved included a semi-trailer box truck and a black Ford Explorer SUV.
A Dry Brush Fire Quickly Started After The SUV Caught Fire
Witnesses reported that the SUV caught fire following the impact, and flames quickly spread to dry brush along the side of the highway. Several bystanders attempted to extinguish the blaze using fire extinguishers and other improvised methods while awaiting emergency services.
Firefighters arrived shortly afterward and were able to contain the fire, but not before the vehicle was severely damaged. Tragically, at least one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The Kern County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office is working to identify the victim and notify next of kin. No additional injuries were immediately reported.
Traffic Was Disrupted For Several Hours Near the 5 Freeway on Taft Highway
The collision happened on a stretch of Highway 119 between Tupman Road and Interstate 5, a route frequently used by commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Traffic was disrupted in both directions for several hours while crews cleared the wreckage and conducted an initial investigation.
Officials have not confirmed the events that led to the crash or whether speed, mechanical failure, or driver impairment may have played a role. The CHP Buttonwillow station has launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact CHP Buttonwillow as the investigation continues.
Accident Location near the Intersection of Taft Highway and Coles Levee Road
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