Tulare County, California (October 5, 2025) — Authorities have identified the three people killed in a devastating crash on Sunday afternoon along Highway 198 as 25-year-old Seth Varela of Visalia, 62-year-old Alvin Ince of Strathmore, and 33-year-old Oakley Jones of Porterville. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office confirmed their identities following a multi-vehicle collision that claimed all three lives at the scene.
Incident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Highway 198, east of Mehrten Drive. When officers arrived, they found two motorcycles and an SUV blocking the highway in both directions. Investigators determined that Varela, driving a 1999 Jeep Cherokee westbound, for unknown reasons, moved to the right and then attempted a sudden U-turn directly into the path of oncoming westbound traffic.
The maneuver caused two motorcyclists, later identified as Ince, operating a 2000 Harley-Davidson, and Jones, operating a 2007 Harley-Davidson, to collide with the left side of the SUV. Both riders were ejected from their motorcycles upon impact, and all three men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation: CHP investigators are continuing to analyze the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. The investigation will include examination of the roadway, vehicle damage, and physical evidence to determine whether factors such as speed, visibility, or driver inattention contributed to the crash. Officers have not yet announced whether toxicology tests or mechanical inspections will be part of the ongoing review.
Highway 198 was closed in both directions for several hours as emergency crews worked to clear debris and document the scene. The California Highway Patrol emphasized the importance of adhering to the speed limit and exercising caution when attempting U-turns or lane changes on rural highways.
Legal Considerations: Fatal collisions involving multiple vehicles and motorcycles often raise complex questions of liability. Under California law, drivers making U-turns must ensure that the movement can be made safely and without interfering with oncoming traffic. A failure to yield the right-of-way can constitute negligence, particularly when it results in fatal injuries.
The families of Alvin Ince and Oakley Jones, as well as the family of Seth Varela, may have grounds to pursue wrongful death claims to recover compensation for funeral costs, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship.
I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Seth Varela, Alvin Ince, and Oakley Jones as they mourn the loss of three lives taken far too soon.
Source: YourCentralValley and YourCentralValley