Santa Rosa, CA – In the early hours of Monday, September 1, 2025, a fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on State Route 12 East at the Dutton Avenue off-ramp, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the incident involved a pickup truck that collided with an embankment and a tree, leaving the vehicle partially off the right-hand shoulder with at least one flat tire. Emergency personnel were notified around 11:59 PM and reported that the driver was trapped inside the vehicle. First responders worked to stabilize the vehicle and assess the condition of the occupant, who was later pronounced deceased at the scene.
CHP coordinated with the California Department of Transportation to manage traffic flow on the off-ramp and surrounding lanes, implementing a temporary closure while the rescue and investigation were underway. By early morning, the vehicle had been towed and stored, and lanes were gradually reopened.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal collision. No further details about the driver’s identity have been released at this time.
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.
