Merced County, CA – One Dead, Three Injured in Hit-and-Run on I-5

Merced County, CA (May 22, 2025) – A hit-and-run collision between a van and a big rig on northbound Interstate 5 near Highway 152 left one man dead and three others seriously injured, the California Highway Patrol reports.

The crash occurred just before 5:00 a.m. Thursday, as the eight-passenger van exited the highway. The rear-ending sent the van into a guardrail and down an embankment. One unrestrained occupant was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene; three other unbelted men were hospitalized with major injuries. The four belted passengers escaped unharmed.

The big rig fled the scene, prompting a hit-and-run investigation by CHP. Authorities continue to search for the truck driver.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wish a full recovery to those injured.