San Benito County, CA – On the early morning of Sunday, August 3, 2025, a single-vehicle collision involving a tree resulted in fatal injuries, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred around 12:35 AM along the 13700 block of Cienega Road, where a vehicle struck a tree along the southbound side of the roadway.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after the crash was reported and found significant damage to the vehicle. At least one individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin by the appropriate coroner’s office.
Early dispatch reports indicated concern that the vehicle may have posed a fire risk to nearby structures, but no fire was confirmed by responding units. The southbound lane was temporarily blocked while emergency services worked the scene and coordinated with towing services to remove the wreckage.
The circumstances leading to the crash are still under investigation. Authorities have not confirmed whether speed, mechanical failure, or other factors may have played a role. Anyone with information is asked to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
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.
