Buttonwillow, CA (September 16, 2025) – A devastating two-vehicle crash along Interstate 5 claimed the life of one man Monday afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 12:02 p.m. on September 15, on the northbound side of I-5, just north of Rowlee Rd in rural Kern County.
Authorities report that a 24-year-old man from North Hollywood was traveling northbound in a 2025 Ram 1500 pickup when a 2010 Toyota Corolla, driven by a 45-year-old La Puente man, unexpectedly veered across the center dirt median into oncoming traffic. The Toyota entered the northbound lane and collided head-on with the Ram.
The force of the impact caused both vehicles to sustain major damage. After the collision, the Toyota continued moving in a southeasterly direction before coming to a stop on the eastbound dirt shoulder. Emergency crews arrived shortly after and pronounced the driver of the Ram pickup dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The driver of the Toyota sustained moderate injuries and was transported by medical personnel to Kern Medical for further treatment. Authorities confirmed that neither drugs nor alcohol were considered contributing factors in the collision. An active investigation is underway to determine why the Toyota left its lane.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the man who lost his life in this tragic accident.
