Onyx, CA (August 21, 2025) – A hit-and-run collision with injuries occurred Monday afternoon on State Route 178 near Canebrake Rd, just west of the Onyx area. The crash involved a red Ford Ranger that reportedly drove through a road closure and struck a Caltrans worker before fleeing the scene.
The incident was first reported around 12:45 PM. Emergency dispatch audio confirms that the vehicle entered an active closure zone and collided with the worker. Medical assistance was promptly requested, and the injured party was transported to Ridgecrest Hospital by a supervisor. The condition of the victim has not yet been publicly released.
Authorities quickly began tracking the suspect vehicle, believed to be a red Ford Ranger with paper license plates. CHP and local law enforcement, including Ridgecrest and Bishop units, coordinated a response to locate the fleeing driver. The suspect vehicle was later seen heading toward Cap Canyon Rd and Thoroughbred St, where units attempted to intercept.
CHP confirmed that a lineup would be conducted for victim identification. The California Highway Patrol and Kern County Sheriff’s Office are jointly investigating the crash as a felony hit-and-run involving injury to a roadway worker.
Our thoughts are with the injured worker, and we wish them a full and swift recovery.
Road Work Zone Collisions and Hit-and-Run Liability
This hit-and-run incident on SR-178 highlights the grave dangers road workers face daily while operating within active construction or closure zones. When drivers ignore posted closures or barriers, the consequences can be severe—even deadly.
Under California law, entering a closed work zone without authorization and causing injury is a serious criminal offense, especially when the driver flees the scene. In this case, the worker was struck while performing duties in a protected area, a scenario that elevates the severity of the offense and may carry enhanced legal penalties for the suspect.
The presence of paper plates on the suspect’s vehicle may complicate identification, but continued coordination between Caltrans, CHP, and local agencies increases the likelihood of a successful investigation. Eye-witness accounts, surveillance, and forensic evidence often play a key role in resolving hit-and-run cases.
Victims of these incidents—especially workers hurt in the line of duty—deserve full medical support, thorough investigations, and protection under both criminal and civil law.
If you witnessed this crash or have information about the red Ford Ranger involved, you are urged to contact CHP or the Kern County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Was someone you know hurt in a work zone hit-and-run crash? At Local Accident Reports, we help victims and families navigate the next steps—from obtaining official accident reports to connecting with trusted legal and medical resources. Reach out today to ensure your rights and recovery are fully supported.
