Rosamond, California (December 10, 2025) — Two people were killed and another seriously injured in a two-vehicle collision at a Rosamond intersection, according to the California Highway Patrol and the Kern County Coroner’s Office. The victims were identified as Richard Madril Diaz, 80, and Maria De Jesus Zuniga Rivas, 65.
Incident Details: The crash occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of 70th Street West and Avenue A. CHP officers said Diaz was driving a Honda Pilot southbound on 70th Street West with Rivas as his passenger when the vehicle entered the intersection. At the same time, a Jeep Wrangler was traveling eastbound on Avenue A.
For reasons still under investigation, the two vehicles collided in the intersection. Diaz was pronounced dead, and Rivas, who was a passenger in the Honda, also died at the scene. The driver of the Jeep Wrangler sustained severe injuries and was transported to Antelope Valley Hospital for treatment. That driver’s name has not been released.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the collision. Detectives are examining physical evidence from the scene, including vehicle damage, debris distribution, and final resting positions, to determine how the vehicles entered the intersection and whether either driver failed to yield the right-of-way.
In intersection crashes resulting in fatalities, investigators typically evaluate right-of-way, vehicle speed, sightlines, and possible obstructions. They may also review roadway design, signage, and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage. Mechanical inspections and toxicology testing are standard procedures to rule out impairment or equipment failure. These steps are critical to providing clarity for families who are left searching for answers after a sudden loss.
Legal Considerations: Fatal intersection collisions often raise difficult questions about negligence and accountability. California law requires drivers to approach intersections with heightened caution and to yield when needed to prevent harm to others. If investigators determine that a failure to yield, inattention, or another traffic violation contributed to the crash, civil liability may follow.
The deaths of Richard and Maria leave a profound impact on family members who now face grief without warning or preparation. Their loved ones may have the right to pursue wrongful death claims to seek accountability and recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the emotional toll of their loss.
I extend my sincere condolences to the families of Mr. Diaz and Ms. Rivas.
Source: Bakersfield Now (KBAK/KBFX)