Head-on Crash Highway 49 and Big Bar Road in Calaveras County
Two-Vehicle Collision on State Route 49 Near Mokelumne Hill
Calaveras County, California (Dec. 22, 2025) — One person is dead after a head-on collision Monday afternoon on Highway 49 near Big Bar Road near Mokelumne Hill in Calaveras County, authorities said.
The crash was reported on Dec. 22nd shortly before 12:45 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 49 and Big Bar Road, according to the California Highway Patrol. Investigators said two vehicles collided head-on, temporarily blocking both lanes of the highway.
Witnesses told CHP that one vehicle swerved into oncoming traffic prior to the crash. One of the vehicles sustained major front-end damage, authorities said.
Initially reported as a hit-and-run with injuries, the incident was later reclassified after the driver involved returned to the scene, CHP logs indicate. Officers said the driver had left the area briefly but came back before the investigation concluded.
At least one person died following the crash. No additional details about those injured were released.
The collision caused a fuel or oil spill estimated at 150 to 200 feet across both lanes, prompting a response from Caltrans and fire crews to apply absorbent material and request a street sweeper. Traffic was impacted while crews cleared the roadway and removed the damaged vehicles.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
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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).
Source: CHP Incident: 0134
