Fresno County, CA (August 5, 2025) — Three people are dead following a devastating wrong-way collision that resulted in a fiery multi-vehicle crash Thursday night on Interstate 5, just north of State Route 145.

According to reports, the California Highway Patrol received multiple 911 calls beginning at 7:39 p.m. on August 1, reporting a major crash involving three vehicles. Investigators say a woman driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-5 when she slammed head-on into a utility van carrying a driver and a passenger.

Moments later, a Toyota Venza following behind the van struck the side of the utility vehicle. All three vehicles erupted into flames and were fully engulfed.

While the two occupants of the Toyota were able to escape with minor injuries, the driver and passenger in the utility van, along with the wrong-way driver in the Jeep, were trapped in their vehicles and died at the scene.

CHP continues to investigate how the Jeep entered the wrong lanes and whether impairment or distraction were contributing factors.

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Wrong-way collisions are often violent, sudden, and leave families reeling in the aftermath. When a loved one is killed due to another driver’s reckless behavior, surviving family members have the right to seek justice and financial compensation through a wrongful death claim. An experienced attorney can help investigate the circumstances of the crash, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional trauma. Act now to protect your rights and secure accountability.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

This report is based on preliminary information from the California Highway Patrol and may be updated as further details emerge.

• Authorities have not yet released the identities of the three deceased victims, pending notification of their families.
• Investigators are working to determine how the wrong-way driver entered the freeway and whether drugs or alcohol were involved.
• For real-time traffic updates or future safety improvements on Interstate 5 in Fresno County, consult CHP or Caltrans sources.

This story is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All facts reflect public data at the time of publication and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has been affected by this crash, consult a legal professional. For more, read our full disclaimer.