[01-17-2026] Kern County, CA – One Killed, Two Injured in Two-Vehicle Crash on Highway 46 Near Wasco

A 20-year-old man was killed, and two others were injured following a two-vehicle crash near Wasco on Saturday afternoon, January 17, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers were called to the scene around 1:16 p.m. on Highway 46 west of Smith Avenue.

A preliminary investigation found that the 20-year-old man was driving a 2003 Toyota Camry eastbound on Highway 46, west of Smith Avenue, while a 60-year-old man was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on the same roadway. 

For reasons still under investigation, CHP said the Toyota crossed into the westbound lane and entered the path of the Chevrolet. The driver of the Silverado attempted to steer to the right to avoid the collision, but the front of the Toyota struck the front of the Chevrolet in the westbound lane.

Emergency medical personnel responded and pronounced the driver of the Toyota dead at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet and his female passenger sustained moderate to major injuries and were transported to a hospital in Bakersfield. CHP stated that alcohol and drugs did not appear to be factors in the crash.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.