Sutter County, CA (January 21, 2026) – A devastating wrong-way accident on State Route 70 claimed the life of one man and left a woman and an infant injured on Tuesday night near Pleasant Grove, according to reports from the California Highway Patrol.
The incident unfolded around 7:26 p.m. on January 20 in the area of SR-70 near Striplin Rd. Authorities received calls regarding a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
According to CHP, the wrong-way vehicle, a white Volkswagen Tiguan, collided head-on with a red Toyota Corolla that had been traveling southbound in its proper lane. The force of the collision caused catastrophic damage to both vehicles.
The man driving the Toyota Corolla was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. First responders worked quickly to assist the occupants of the Tiguan. The female driver suffered major injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. A baby, estimated to be around one year old and also in the Tiguan, was taken to the hospital for evaluation and care.
Investigators remained at the scene for several hours, working to piece together the events leading up to the collision. Authorities have not yet confirmed what caused the driver of the Tiguan to enter the wrong lanes, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragic event, especially the family and loved ones of the man who lost his life.
