Fatal Head-on Crash 5 Freeway, Finnell Avenue in Corning, Tehama County
Fatal Head-on Crash on I-5 South Near Finnell Avenue Off-Ramp, Red Bluff
TEHAMA COUNTY, Calif., (May 11, 2026) — A fatal head-on collision on Interstate 5 Freeway South near the Finnell Avenue off-ramp happened Friday afternoon in Corning.
The incident occurred on May 8th around 4:12 p.m. in Tehama County, when a black pickup truck traveling northbound in the southbound lanes collided head-on with a white sedan. The crash was reported to have taken place on the southbound section of I-5, just south of the Finnell Avenue off-ramp, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The vehicles involved included a white Ford Taurus and a black pickup truck, which were reportedly blocking the roadway entirely. The collision resulted in significant damage to a nearby light pole, and emergency services, including CAL FIRE and the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office, were dispatched to the scene. Unfortunately, a female motorist was pronounced deceased at the scene, as noted by authorities. Their identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Emergency responders worked diligently to manage the scene, diverting traffic at the Gyle exit to alleviate congestion. The CHP has closed the freeway at Gyle and is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to come forward.
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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
