Millville, CA (May 5, 2025) – One man was killed and a woman seriously injured on Monday afternoon following a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a car on Whitmore Road near Cow Creek Ranch Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Accident Details: CHP reports that the crash occurred around 2:35 p.m. when Pamela Sutton, 50, of Whitmore, was driving a 2004 Honda Civic westbound at approximately 55–60 MPH. For reasons still under investigation, Sutton’s vehicle drifted across the broken yellow lines into the eastbound lane, directly into the path of a 1999 Harley Davidson motorcycle.
The motorcycle was traveling eastbound at a similar speed. It was occupied by a 45-year-old male driver from Anderson and a 41-year-old female passenger from Palo Cedro. Both riders were ejected on impact. The male motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, and the female passenger was airlifted to Mercy Medical Center in Redding with major injuries.
Authorities have stated that drugs, alcohol, and phone use do not appear to be factors in the crash. The collision remains under investigation by the Redding CHP.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The CHP has stated that the Honda Civic drifted across the center line into the oncoming lane, causing a head-on collision. They will likely investigate the cause, including possible intoxication, distraction, or mechanical failure. Investigators will also likely examine skid marks, eyewitness accounts, toxicology results, and road conditions to reconstruct the accident.
Depending on the investigation, the family of the deceased motorcyclist may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. The injured passenger may also pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
I extend my condolences to the family and friends of the motorcyclist who lost his life. I wish the injured passenger a fast recovery.
Source: KRCRTV