Stanislaus County, CA (June 23, 2026) – Several people were hurt in a major injury crash involving multiple vehicles late Sunday night on Interstate 5 near the Stuhr Rd off-ramp in Stanislaus County.
According to dispatch records, the collision was reported shortly before midnight on June 21 along southbound I-5 near W Stuhr Rd. Initial reports indicated a Chevrolet Equinox collided with another vehicle, leaving at least one vehicle disabled in the fast lane.
As emergency crews responded, additional crashes were reported involving vehicles attempting to avoid the original collision. Dispatch records indicated that one vehicle overturned multiple times after leaving the roadway, while a Nissan Pathfinder came to rest down an embankment and was not visible from the freeway. Several people were reported outside their vehicles and standing in traffic lanes.
Emergency personnel also received reports of a pedestrian being struck after a vehicle swerved to avoid the initial crash. One caller reported hearing a person screaming for help, and a medical helicopter was ultimately requested to land on the freeway to assist with the response. Authorities later confirmed that multiple vehicles were involved and that at least one person sustained major injuries believed to be non-life-threatening. Investigators continue examining the sequence of events and the factors that contributed to the multi-vehicle collision.
We extend our best wishes to those injured and hope for their full recovery.
Why Do Secondary Crashes Occur After an Initial Collision?
Secondary crashes can develop when drivers encounter an unexpected roadway hazard, such as disabled vehicles, debris, or stopped traffic resulting from an earlier collision. Motorists may have limited time to react, particularly at night when visibility is reduced.
These incidents can sometimes become more severe than the original crash because vehicles approach at highway speeds and may make sudden maneuvers to avoid obstacles. Swerving, abrupt braking, and lane changes can increase the risk of rollovers, roadway departures, and additional impacts involving other vehicles.
Investigators reviewing multi-vehicle collisions work to establish the sequence of events leading up to each impact. Evidence from the roadway, vehicle damage patterns, witness statements, and electronic data may help determine how the initial crash contributed to subsequent collisions and injuries.
