A passenger was killed and the driver seriously injured after a Penske truck struck a tree along Interstate 5 in Sacramento, early Sunday morning, June 8, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:20 a.m. on southbound I-5, just south of Florin Road. A 2024 Penske truck was traveling south when the 36-year-old driver made an unsafe turning movement for unknown reasons, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway.
The truck collided with a tree, ejecting 29-year-old passenger William Gonzalez. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver was transported to a hospital with major injuries. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Authorities said it is unclear if alcohol played a role in the incident. The crash remains under investigation.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
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.