Horseback Rider Injured in Car Accident at Santa Fe Drive, Fox Road in Franklin

Major Injury Traffic Collision on Santa Fe Drive, Merced County

FRANKLIN, Calif., (October 5, 2026) — A driver in a dark blue minivan struck a person on horseback early Monday morning at Santa Fe Drive and North Fox Road at the border of Franklin and Atwater.

The incident was first reported on Oct. 5th at approximately 5:43 a.m., when emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, the California Highway Patrol reported. Details from the CHP indicate that the minivan collided with a male who was riding a horse. Subsequent reports noted that the man and the horse were both in the roadway at the time of the collision.

Emergency medical services, including American Medical Response, arrived swiftly, and the injured male was flown to Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries. The condition of the horse involved remains unclear at this time.

The collision caused temporary blockage of the southbound lane, but the roadway was reopened by 8:35 a.m. The California Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are urging any witnesses or individuals with information about the incident to come forward to assist in their inquiry.

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 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).