Fatal Head-on Crash on Copus Road, Old River Road in Bakersfield

3 Killed, 4 Injured in Crash on Copus Road

KERN COUNTY, Calif., (Aug. 28, 2026) — A tragic head-on collision resulted in a fatality early Friday morning at 14900 Copus Road near Old River Road in the Lakeview area south of Bakersfield.

UPDATE: Three people were killed, and four were hospitalized following the collision.

The crash, reported on Aug. 28th at approximately 5:22 a.m., involved a grey Nissan Sentra and a blue Hyundai minivan, according to the California Highway Patrol. Both vehicles were reportedly obstructing traffic lanes at the time of the collision.

Emergency responders were promptly dispatched, with units arriving on scene by 5:47 a.m. Despite their efforts, the severity of the accident led to the deaths of three people, four others suffered minor to major injuries.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is actively investigating the incident. They are urging any witnesses to come forward with information that might aid in understanding the circumstances leading to this devastating event.

Got Legal Questions? Get Answers: 1-800-208-3538

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 in Bakersfield 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).