Laytonville, CA (January 28, 2026) – A fatal multi-vehicle collision claimed the life of one driver Monday night on Highway 101 near Rattlesnake Summit in Mendocino County, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 9:25 p.m. on January 26, when a southbound Ford Escape reportedly drifted across the double yellow lines and sideswiped a northbound Chevrolet Silverado. The impact caused the Ford to also collide with a Freightliner big rig in the northbound lanes.
Following the series of collisions, the Ford came to a stop straddling the double yellow lines, while the Chevrolet veered into a dirt embankment and landed on its side. CHP confirmed that the driver of the Ford Escape died at the scene. Their identity has not yet been released pending family notification.
A passenger in the Chevrolet Silverado was injured and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The driver of the Freightliner was not reported injured.
Authorities closed the affected portion of Highway 101 for several hours while crews worked to clear the scene and begin a formal investigation into the sequence of events. Weather conditions, driver impairment, and mechanical factors are all expected to be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, and our thoughts remain with all those impacted by this tragic collision.
