Red Bluff, CA – On the evening of Thursday, June 4, 2026, a collision between a big rig and a van resulted in a fatality, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 5:45 PM on Highway 99 West between the 12356 and 12539 blocks.
Authorities said the collision involved a big rig and a Toyota Highlander van, with the roadway completely blocked following the impact. The vehicle caught fire following the crash, with a responding officer using a fire extinguisher while awaiting CAL FIRE’s arrival.
CAL FIRE extinguished the fire and confirmed one fatality at the scene. The Tehama County Sheriff’s Office was notified to respond in its capacity as coroner, with a deputy dispatched to the scene.
A hard closure was established northbound at Riverside and southbound at the hospital, with Red Bluff Police Department and the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office assisting with traffic control. County Roads was contacted for assistance with the closure and cleanup.
A heavy-duty tow was requested for the big rig, with the Toyota Highlander requiring a separate tow from the south. The roadway was swept and reopened at approximately 9:11 PM, with the heavy-duty tow truck remaining on the right shoulder to complete the vehicle recovery.
No additional details regarding the identity of the deceased had been released at the time of reporting. The investigation remains ongoing.
Wrongful Death Claim
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a wrongful death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
