Calaveras County, CA (September 1, 2024) – On Sunday night, a tragic head-on collision on Highway 12 just west of San Andreas claimed the lives of two individuals and left another severely injured.
Accident Details and Ongoing Investigation: According to reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the accident occurred around 9:22 p.m. when 22-year-old Dylan Butler of Copperopolis was driving a Ford Mustang westbound on Highway 12, approaching the intersection with Brauns Way. At the same time, 55-year-old John Bandy of San Andreas drove his GMC Sierra eastbound on the same highway.
The circumstances leading up to the collision are still under investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that Bandy failed to navigate a right-hand curve in the road for reasons not yet determined. His vehicle crossed over the double-yellow lines directly into the path of Butler’s Mustang.
John Bandy and 21-year-old Faith Romero, a passenger in the Mustang, both died at the scene due to their injuries. Butler survived the crash but sustained major injuries. He was transported to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for urgent medical care.
As investigators continue to piece together the events that led to this fatal crash, they are also looking into whether alcohol or drugs may have been contributing factors. The CHP encourages anyone who may have witnessed the collision to provide information that could aid their investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. In devastating accidents like this one, numerous factors must be thoroughly investigated to determine liability. The key questions that need answers include why Bandy’s vehicle crossed the centerline and whether any factors, such as mechanical failure, road conditions, or driver impairment, could have contributed to the collision.
Given the severity of the injuries and the loss of life, a full investigation must be conducted to establish the cause of the crash. The results of the investigation will not only be crucial in determining liability but also in potentially providing answers to grieving families. Depending on the findings regarding fault and negligence, those involved may have grounds for wrongful death or personal injury claims.
My deepest condolences go out to the families of John Bandy and Faith Romero during this unimaginably difficult time. I wish Dylan Butler a fast recovery.
Source: The Union Democrat