Deadly Head-On Collision in Tehama County Claims Six Lives

Deadly Head-On Collision in Tehama County Claims Six Lives

A deadly head-on collision in Tehama County claims six lives on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, as well as one person airlifted with serious injuries.

The crash involved a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck and a Tehama County transit bus on Highway 99W south of Gyle Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

A fatal head-on collision occurred when a Tacoma traveling southbound veered across the broken yellow centerline into the path of a northbound TRAX bus. The resulting impact caused the bus to catch fire. Authorities confirmed six fatalities: five individuals on the bus—the driver and four passengers—and the lone occupant of the Tacoma.

A bus passenger was airlifted to a hospital with major injuries. CHP investigators are still working to determine the cause of the collision, including whether drugs, alcohol, or other factors contributed.

The Tehama County Board of Supervisors confirmed that the incident involved a Tehama Rural Area Express (TRAX) bus, and that one of their employees was killed. In response, TRAX suspended transit service for the remainder of Wednesday and Thursday. Officials extended condolences to all families, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragedy.

Preventing Fatal Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes remain among the deadliest types of traffic accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Drivers are urged to maintain lane discipline, avoid distractions, and never cross into oncoming traffic. Rural highways, like Highway 99W, often have higher speeds and fewer barriers, increasing the risk of severe collisions. Careful driving and defensive awareness can save lives in these high-risk areas.

Check out this video with accident attorney Ed Smith to discover how to select the best injury lawyer for your claim:

How Legal Support Can Help After a Catastrophic Crash

When a crash results in serious injuries or fatalities, families may face medical bills, funeral expenses, and complex insurance matters. A personal injury attorney can assist by investigating the circumstances, preserving evidence, and helping survivors or families pursue compensation for losses caused by negligent parties. In fatal crashes, wrongful death claims may be pursued to provide financial support and justice for loved ones.

Tehama County Accident Victims: Ed Smith Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured—or lost a family member—in a Northern California traffic collision, Ed Smith, founder of AutoAccident.com, offers experienced and compassionate legal representation. For more than four decades, our firm has helped accident victims across Northern California recover compensation after catastrophic crashes.

Since 1982, we have represented clients in complex cases involving vehicles, buses, and commercial transit. For free, friendly advice, call (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 (toll-free). There is no obligation, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.