Richfield, CA (January 15, 2026) – A devastating head-on collision involving a Tehama County transit bus and a pickup truck claimed the lives of six individuals Tuesday morning along Highway 99W near Gyle Rd in Richfield.
The crash occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on January 13. According to local authorities, a Toyota Tacoma traveling southbound on Highway 99W crossed the broken yellow centerline and collided head-on with the northbound transit bus. The violent impact caused the bus to catch fire, quickly becoming fully engulfed in flames.
Tragically, the bus driver and four passengers aboard were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Tacoma was also killed in the crash. Emergency crews airlifted one surviving passenger from the bus to Enloe Medical Center with severe injuries.
The crash site was closed for several hours as fire personnel worked to extinguish the blaze and investigators began documenting the scene. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims or determined what led to the Tacoma veering into the opposing lane.
An investigation remains ongoing as officials work to piece together the events surrounding this catastrophic accident.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those lost in this tragic incident. We hope for strength and healing for the injured survivor.
