Trinity County, California (January 24, 2026) — A head-on collision on a winding stretch of Highway 299 near Del Loma claimed the lives of four people Saturday evening, including a brother and sister who were returning from the North Coast with friends. The crash has left two others seriously injured and has shaken families across Northern California, according to the California Highway Patrol and relatives of the victims.
Incident Details: The crash occurred around 6:50 p.m. Saturday on Highway 299 west of Big Bar, near Del Loma. CHP officials reported that a white Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling westbound crossed into the eastbound lane while navigating a curve in the roadway and collided head-on with a red Chevrolet Impala.
Five people were traveling inside the Chevrolet Impala at the time of the collision. Four occupants suffered fatal injuries. Two of the victims were identified as siblings, Natalie Houston, 23, and Craig Houston, 19. Authorities have not yet released the names of the two other people who were killed. A fifth occupant of the Impala survived and was airlifted to a hospital with significant injuries.
The driver of the Jeep Grand Cherokee also sustained serious injuries and was transported for medical treatment. Officials stated that alcohol is being considered as a possible contributing factor in the crash. The Trinity County Sheriff’s Office is handling the coroner’s investigation.
According to the siblings’ adoptive father, Natalie and Craig Houston were returning from the coast after visiting Hoopa, where they had gone to visit their biological father’s grave. Family members said the trip was meant to be reflective and meaningful, making the sudden loss even more devastating.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, focusing on why a vehicle crossed the center line in head-on collisions on two-lane highways, especially in curved and elevated areas. Investigators will analyze scene evidence like skid marks, debris, and vehicle damage to reconstruct the events and determine how the Jeep entered the opposing lane.
Since alcohol is suspected as a possible factor, investigators will probably examine toxicology reports, witness statements, and evidence concerning the Jeep driver’s condition prior to the crash. Data from the vehicles may also be reviewed to assess speed, braking, and steering in the moments before impact.
Legal Considerations: Head-on crashes are among the deadliest traffic collisions. Liability depends on whether a driver acted negligently, such as crossing into oncoming traffic, or was impaired, speeding, or reckless. When multiple fatalities occur, the legal process involves examining driver behavior, road conditions, and vehicle performance. Accountability requires a full, accurate account of how four lives were lost in a single moment. These cases often need accident reconstruction and expert analysis to determine preventability.
Pending the investigation’s findings, the families of Natalie Houston, Craig Houston, and the two other victims may pursue wrongful death claims for funeral expenses, lost support, and emotional suffering.
I sincerely offer my condolences to the families and friends of all four victims as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.
Source: Redding Record Searchlight