FRESNO, Fresno County, Calif., Oct. 25, 2026 — A white Honda became lodged beneath a semi truck's trailer early on Saturday morning, October 24, in a crash that closed the southbound State Route 99 offramp at Shaw Avenue for hours, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision was reported shortly after 4:20 a.m. near the gore point where the offramp splits from the freeway. The Honda ended up pinned under the semi's trailer, with someone heard yelling from inside the car immediately after the crash. An ambulance was requested for an injury, and CHP units also described the semi driver as in need of medical attention, though the extent of any injuries has not been released.
Crews worked for more than an hour to free the trapped vehicle. A tow operator reported around 4:50 a.m. that the car could not be pulled loose, and additional heavy-duty tow resources were called in. Fire personnel were nearing the scene around 4:30 a.m., and CHP later confirmed personnel had arrived. By roughly 5:45 a.m., responders reported the extrication effort was complete.
The offramp remained blocked for an extended period while crews worked, and CHP briefly closed a lane on the ramp for additional cleanup around 5:55 a.m. Investigators have not said what led to the crash, and no cause has been confirmed.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
More on Crashes in Fresno, CA
The crash was reported on State Route 99 in Fresno. If you were involved in a crash in the city, our Fresno road safety and crash report page explains how to get a police report and what the latest local crash figures show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do trucks need so much distance to stop?
Fully loaded semi-trucks weigh many times more than passenger cars and require much longer braking distances, especially at highway speeds. That extra weight and length also make sudden lane changes or quick stops far riskier for everyone nearby.
Does driver fatigue play a role in truck crashes?
Fatigue is a recognized factor in many truck collisions, particularly during early-morning or overnight hours, as in this crash. It is unknown whether fatigue was a factor in this incident.
How can drivers share the road safely with large trucks?
Give trucks extra room to merge, brake, and turn, and avoid lingering in blind spots along the sides and rear of a trailer. Passing quickly and predictably, rather than drifting alongside a truck, reduces the risk of a sideswipe or underride.
What to Do After a Car Accident Involving a Truck in Fresno, CA
If you're involved in a crash with a commercial truck in Fresno, your safety comes first. Move to a safe spot if you're able, check on anyone else involved, and call for emergency help right away. Even if you feel okay, it's worth getting checked by a medical provider, since adrenaline can mask pain or injury in the hours after a collision.
Once everyone is safe, document what you can: photos of the vehicles, the roadway, and any visible damage help later on. Get a copy of the CHP or police report when it becomes available, and keep track of any medical visits or missed work tied to the crash. Fresno's freeway interchanges see heavy truck traffic at all hours, so having a clear record of what happened can make a real difference if questions come up later.
