[07-08-2026] Merced County, CA – 9-Year-Old Critically Injured in Head-On Crash on Lander Ave. in Hilmar

A 9-year-old boy suffered major injuries in a head-on crash in Hilmar, Merced County, on Wednesday morning, July 8, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported at around 1:54 a.m. on Lander Avenue.

The boy was a passenger in a 2002 Honda Civic driven southbound by 31-year-old Jose R. of Turlock when the vehicle crossed into the northbound lane and collided head-on with a 2025 Chrysler SUV traveling at approximately 55 mph.

The boy was initially unresponsive at the scene, with medical personnel performing CPR, but regained consciousness prior to being airlifted to Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera. His current condition has not been released.

The driver of the Chrysler SUV sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. The Honda Civic driver suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.

Another passenger in the Honda, 30-year-old Oscar C. of Hilmar, the boy’s father, also suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of felony child endangerment.

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.