This story was originally published on Thursday, April 7, and was updated on Friday, April 8.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — At least one person has died in a crash Thursday afternoon along Highway 43 north of Wasco.
According to CHP’s Traffic Incident Information Page, the crash involving an SUV and a sedan was reported just before 3:45 p.m. at Highway 43 and Pond Road. Both vehicles ended up off the roadway and into a ditch.
A CHP investigation showed that the driver of a Toyota Corolla was driving westbound on Pond Road. Officials said the driver stopped at the posted stop sign at the intersection of Pond Road and Highway 43.
At the same time, Hanford, Calif., resident Guillermo M. Valera was driving a Ford Expedition northbound on Highway 43, according to CHP.
The driver of the Toyota proceeded into the intersection in front of Valera, 57, according to CHP. Officials said Valera tried to brake to avoid the Toyota but could not in time and hit the driver’s side of the Toyota at about 65 miles per hour, according to CHP.
The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene. Valera sustained minor injuries, according to CHP.
Officials said alcohol and drugs are not a factor in this crash.
