Fatal Head-on Crash on Highway 26 near Rancho Calaveras

VALLEY SPRINGS, Calif. (July 1, 2025) — A fatal head-on crash shut down a portion of Highway 26 near Rancho Calaveras on Monday afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

The crash occurred just before 4 p.m. west of Vista Del Lago. Investigators say a 78-year-old Ione man was driving a 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage eastbound on Highway 26 when he lost control attempting to navigate a curve, crossing into oncoming traffic.

The Mitsubishi collided head-on with a westbound 2008 Ford F-250 pickup. The elderly driver of the Mitsubishi, a Valley Springs resident, died from his injuries at the scene. The Ford’s driver sustained only minor injuries, CHP reported.

Authorities have not yet released the deceased driver’s name pending notification of next of kin.

The highway was temporarily closed for emergency response and investigation but has since fully reopened.

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