Los Banos, CA (March 5, 2024) – A tragic incident occurred early Tuesday morning in the Los Banos area off Interstate 5, resulting in the death of 26-year-old Ricardo Alonso from Santa Maria. The Merced County Sheriff Coroner’s Office, through Deputy Michael Domingue, confirmed the identity of the victim involved in the collision between two big rigs.
Incident Overview: The accident took place shortly after 3 a.m. on Tuesday, when California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers from the Los Banos area responded to reports of a crash on northbound Interstate 5, south of Henry Miller Avenue. The collision involved a 2021 Kenworth big rig, driven by 28-year-old Gurjant Singh of Elk Grove, and a parked 2012 Kenworth big rig.
Details of the Collision: According to the CHP, Singh’s vehicle was traveling in the number two lane and, for reasons still under investigation, veered onto the right shoulder. This maneuver led to the collision with the rear trailer of the parked big rig. At the time of the impact, Ricardo Alonso, the driver of the parked vehicle, was standing next to his big rig and trailer. The force of the collision caused the parked big rig to move several feet, striking Alonso and inflicting fatal injuries. Singh was transported to a Modesto hospital with major injuries.
Investigation and Legal Implications: The CHP has stated that it is currently unknown if drugs or alcohol were contributing factors in the crash. The investigation will focus on uncovering the cause of Singh’s vehicle drifting onto the shoulder and the circumstances leading up to the collision. This tragic event highlights the dangers posed by vehicles parked on the roadside, especially for drivers exiting their vehicles in such situations.
In truck accidents involving commercial vehicles, such as big rigs, the investigation may also examine compliance with regulations regarding rest periods and parking. The outcome of the CHP’s investigation could have significant legal implications, including potential charges or citations depending on the findings regarding the cause of the accident and the factors contributing to it.
My thoughts are with the family and friends of Ricardo Alonso during this difficult time, as well as with Gurjant Singh as he recovers from his injuries. The ongoing investigation by the CHP will hopefully provide answers and closure to those affected by this tragic event.
Source: Merced Sun-Star