California Highway Patrol Madera officers responded to a crash involving two vehicles, on SR-152, at Road 14 1/2.
A 32-year-old man from Fresno was driving a white 2019 Freightliner Cascadia, tractor trailer combination, eastbound on SR-152, approaching Road 14 1/2 at about 2 a.m. Saturday.
He was traveling in the No. 2 lane, at approximately 10-15 mph, with his emergency hazard lights activated, due to experiencing engine difficulties.
A 50-year-old woman from Fresno was driving a black Honda Clarity, traveling eastbound on SR-152, in the No. 2 lane, approaching the rear of the Freightliner. A 17-year-old female was seated in the right front passenger seat.
For reasons still under investigation, the 50-year-old driver collided into the rear of the Freightliner’s trailer. Due to the severity of the impact, the Honda became wedged under the rear of the trailer.
After the impact, the truck driver drove to the right shoulder, unaware the Honda was trapped beneath the rear of the trailer.
Despite the immediate response from emergency personnel, both the driver and passenger in the Honda were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Freightliner was not injured. All parties were wearing their seat belts.
This crash remains under investigation. At this time, it is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were a factor (pending toxicology report).