San Benito County, CA (January 31, 2026) – A tragic two-vehicle collision on Friday morning claimed the life of one man and left another person injured in San Benito County. The crash occurred around 7:12 AM at the roundabout where State Route 156 meets Bixby Rd, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
CHP reported that the crash involved a Honda sedan and a Dodge coupe. Both vehicles collided within the roundabout, causing significant damage. Emergency responders from the CHP Hollister-Gilroy Area arrived quickly to secure the scene, provide medical assistance, and manage traffic in the area.
First responders, including paramedics, assessed and treated the occupants of both vehicles. A 36-year-old man from Salinas, who authorities confirmed was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second driver sustained minor injuries and received on-site treatment. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not yet confirmed who was driving each vehicle.
CHP officials emphasized that failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to the fatal outcome, underscoring the life-saving importance of occupant restraint systems in serious collisions.
Traffic was temporarily disrupted during the morning commute as crews worked to investigate and clear the wreckage. The CHP continues to investigate the cause of the crash and determine all contributing factors.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the man who lost his life. We also wish a swift recovery to the individual who was injured in this incident.
