Placerville, CA – On the afternoon of Sunday, August 17, 2025, a single-vehicle crash left one driver dead after going off a cliff, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 1:27 PM on U.S. Route 50 near the 36-mile marker.
Authorities say a white SUV left the roadway and plunged down a steep embankment described as cliff-like terrain. Witnesses traveling on the highway reported that the vehicle went straight down the slope and became obscured from view. Several motorists stopped and attempted to provide aid until emergency crews arrived.
Firefighters reached the crash site within minutes and began a grid search of the area to ensure no additional passengers were involved. Crews determined that the SUV carried only the driver, who died at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Officials have not yet released the identity of the deceased, pending notification of family.
CHP requested an evidence tow equipped with 150 feet of cable to recover the wrecked vehicle from the steep terrain. The El Dorado County Coroner responded, and investigators continue to examine the cause of the fatal incident.
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.
