[06-12-2024] Madera County, CA – One Killed, Two Others Injured After Pursuit Led To Reckless Multi-Vehicle Collision on Highway 41 north of Oakhurst

One person was killed, and two others were injured after a pursuit led to a reckless multi-vehicle collision in Madera County on Wednesday afternoon, June 12, 2024. 

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision happened on Highway 41 near Road 222 to Bass Lake north of Oakhurst. 

Authorities stated that the collision involved a Toyota Yaris, a Chevrolet Traverse, and a Nissan. The 35-year-old man in the Toyota did not want to pay for his camping fees, so he drove away from Yosemite Rangers and initiated a pursuit. 

The high-speed chase continues on Highway 41 at approximately 80 miles per hour. CHP tried to stop the Toyota, but the suspect continued to drive at a high speed and collided with the back of the Nissan. 

As a result, the driver lost control, crashed into the northbound Chevrolet Traverse, and overturned. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene, and at least two occupants from the other involved vehicles sustained injuries. Details on the identities of the victims were not immediately known. 

No further information was released, and the authorities are still gathering the necessary details to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. 

Investigations are ongoing.