By Crash News Writer 
Madera County, CA (October 4, 2025) – A Chowchilla police officer tragically lost his life Friday night in a collision involving a big rig at a rural Madera County intersection.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the deadly crash occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. on October 4 at the intersection of State Route 152 and Road 13. Officer Ray Barrantes was driving a marked Ford Explorer patrol vehicle eastbound on SR-152 when a southbound Freightliner truck pulling double trailers entered the intersection.
The impact of the crash caused the officer’s SUV to become wedged beneath the rear trailer of the tomato-hauling rig. Tragically, Officer Barrantes died at the scene.
The 36-year-old driver of the Freightliner, a man from Firebaugh, was not injured.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash and what factors may have contributed.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This story is based on initial information from the California Highway Patrol and may be updated as more details emerge. For more help understanding your rights, review our frequently asked questions in California.
- Officer Ray Barrantes has been identified as the deceased; notification of next of kin has been made.
- Authorities have not disclosed whether speed, visibility, or other contributing factors were involved in the crash.
- Traffic delays and detours may continue in the area of State Route 152 and Road 13 during the ongoing investigation.
This article is intended solely for informational use and is not legal or medical advice. Information is based on current reports and may evolve. For full details, please read our disclaimer.
If your family is coping with a fatal crash, contact a California personal injury lawyer today to explore your options for justice and compensation.