KINGS COUNTY CALIFORNIA, a tragic head-on collision on Highway 41 claimed the lives of five people Sunday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. just south of York Avenue.
Investigators reported that a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound when the driver attempted to pass slower-moving traffic.
During the maneuver, the vehicle entered the northbound lane and collided head-on with a white 2022 Toyota Prius traveling in the opposite direction.
The impact caused the Chevrolet Silverado to overturn and become fully engulfed in flames.
The driver of the Silverado and three passengers inside the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Toyota Prius, identified as 35-year-old Jose Ramos of Oakdale, also suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have identified one of the victims in the Silverado as Jaden Garza, along with his sister and her friend.
The identities of the remaining victims have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Officials stated that it is not yet known whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
