Morgan Hill, CA – On the morning of Sunday, May 3, 2026, a single-vehicle collision resulted in a fatality on Watsonville Road, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 8:01 AM on Watsonville Road between the 13700 and 14062 blocks.
Authorities said a vehicle struck a flagpole, a tree, and two fences before coming to rest, with debris scattered across the southbound lane. The driver sustained fatal injuries, while two passengers were able to exit the vehicle. Santa Clara County Fire Department responded and pronounced the driver dead at the scene at approximately 8:22 AM. Two passengers were found outside the vehicle following the crash.
PG&E was notified after a utility pole was struck at its base during the collision, though no wires were reported down. PG&E confirmed they had already been contacted by the fire department. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and coroner were notified and coordinated with responding officers. A tow was requested for the vehicle following the conclusion of on-scene proceedings.
No additional details regarding the identity of the deceased had been released at the time of reporting. The investigation remains ongoing.
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 through a wrongful death claim.