Willows, CA (March 21, 2026) – A UTV rider was killed in a crash on County Rd 20 east of I-5 in Willows.
The accident occurred on Friday, March 20. According to the California Highway Patrol, an 18-year-old driver from Orland, Mattie Gunther, was traveling east in a Toyota sedan when the vehicle collided with a Kawasaki utility terrain vehicle (UTV).
The rider of the Kawasaki was ejected from the UTV and suffered fatal injuries. Emergency units responded to the scene, but the rider was pronounced dead. Gunther remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why UTV Accidents Can Be Particularly Dangerous
Utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) are smaller and less stable than standard cars, making riders especially vulnerable in collisions. Ejections are common in crashes, even at moderate speeds, due to limited protective structures and the open design of these vehicles.
Impacts with larger vehicles, such as sedans or trucks, often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to differences in size and weight. Wearing seat belts or helmets can reduce the risk of injury, but UTV occupants remain highly exposed compared with car passengers.
Crashes can happen quickly when vehicles share roadways or driveways not designed for UTV traffic, and even brief collisions can have critical consequences.
