Fillmore, CA (August 3, 2025) — A head-on crash Sunday evening on Highway 126 east of Fillmore left a 71-year-old Piru man dead and another driver seriously injured, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Incident Details: The collision occurred at approximately 7:47 p.m. near the fish hatchery. Investigators say a 53-year-old Ventura man driving a 2019 Honda Odyssey westbound at about 60 mph crossed into the eastbound lane, colliding head-on with a 2010 Volkswagen Passat driven by the Piru man. Both drivers were trapped in their vehicles and required extrication by Ventura County Fire Department crews. The Piru man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the Ventura driver was transported to a hospital with major injuries. One of the vehicles went down an embankment and came to rest on the south side of the highway.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: CHP investigators will work to determine why the Honda Odyssey crossed into oncoming traffic. Possible factors include distraction, fatigue, medical emergency, or impairment. Crash reconstruction, witness accounts, and vehicle inspections will be essential in determining the cause.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the family of the deceased may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of support, and other damages.
My condolences to the family and friends of the deceased man.
Source: Ventura County Star