Driver dies in collision with big rig on Interstate 5 in Merced County
A driver is dead after crash involving a sedan and a big rig on Interstate 5, southwest of Gustine in Merced County, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Los Banos CHP officers responded to the collision in the northbound lanes of Interstate 5, south of Taglio Road just after 9 a.m. Thursday. Authorities said it appears a 2022 International truck with a trailer was travailing northbound on Interstate 5 in the number one lane directly in front of a 2011 BMW.
As the big rig was slowing and stopped for traffic ahead, the driver of the BMW failed to slow down and crashed into the rear of the trailer causing the car to become lodged underneath, the CHP said. The driver of the BMW sustained major front-end damage in the crash and the driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene by fire personnel.
Authorities withheld the identity of the driver pending notification of next-of-kin.
The CHP said it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were factor in the collision.