Buttonwillow, California (September 15, 2025) — A 24-year-old man from North Hollywood was killed Monday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 north of Rowlee Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Incident Details: CHP officers responded just after 12 p.m. to reports of a collision involving a 2025 Ram 1500 pickup and a 2010 Toyota Corolla. Investigators determined that the Corolla, driven by a 45-year-old man from La Puente, veered left into the dirt center median and crossed into the northbound lanes. The car entered directly into the path of the Ram pickup.
The Ram’s driver, a 24-year-old man from North Hollywood, was unable to avoid the collision. The vehicles collided head-on, with the Toyota’s front striking the left front of the pickup. The Corolla continued southeast before coming to rest on the east dirt shoulder. Tragically, the Ram driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Toyota’s driver sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Kern Medical for treatment. CHP noted that drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the crash.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: CHP is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether distraction, fatigue, or a medical emergency may have contributed to the Toyota driver’s lane departure. Crash reconstruction will involve analyzing speed, vehicle positions, and potential roadway conditions.
From a civil perspective, the family of the 24-year-old victim may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation in such cases may include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and damages for the emotional toll of losing a loved one. Liability in head-on collisions typically rests with the driver who crossed into oncoming traffic, though investigators must confirm all details before fault is formally assigned.
Interstate 5 in Kern County is one of California’s busiest freight corridors, where high-speed collisions often result in severe or fatal outcomes. Authorities may review whether additional median barriers could help prevent similar tragedies in areas where vehicles can cross directly into oncoming traffic.
This tragic loss of a young life serves as a reminder of the catastrophic consequences of lane departures at highway speeds.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the North Hollywood man killed in this crash.
Source: BakersfieldNow