Calaveras County Firefighter Thomas Wennhol, 20, Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash at Mountain Ranch, Rocky Rd

Calaveras County, CA – A young firefighter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Wennhold of San Andreas, lost his life on Wednesday morning, January 15, 2025, in a crash on Mountain Ranch Road, according to KCRA.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers responded to a report of the crash at around 8:30 AM near the intersection of Mountain Ranch and Rocky roads. The Central Calaveras Fire and Rescue Protection District confirmed Wennhold was one of their firefighters.

Investigators determined that Wennhold was driving a Dodge Ram eastbound when his vehicle veered off the roadway, overturned, and rolled down a 20-foot embankment into the riverbed. Residents of the area, familiar with the treacherous conditions of Mountain Ranch Road, described the roadway as prone to dangerous winter ice. 

CHP stated that alcohol and drugs are not suspected as factors in the crash. The investigation is ongoing. 

 

Single-Vehicle Collisions and Comparative Negligence

In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. 

California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages. A personal injury attorney can play a critical role in sorting through these details to help victims and their families get the compensation they deserve.

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.

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