One Killed, Three Injured, Hit While Changing Flat Tire on Highway 50 in Sacramento

One Killed, Three Injured, Hit While Changing Flat Tire on Highway 50 in Sacramento

One person was killed and three others injured were hit while changing flat tire on Highway 50 in Sacramento after a passing vehicle struck them late Sunday night, August 16, 2026, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Four Men Struck on Shoulder of Highway 50

The collision was reported at approximately 11:35 p.m. on eastbound Highway 50 near 34th Street.

According to CHP’s preliminary investigation, a vehicle developed a flat tire and pulled onto the right shoulder of the freeway. Friends of the driver then stopped behind the disabled vehicle to help change the tire.
Four men were outside the vehicles working on the flat tire when a passing SUV reportedly drifted out of its travel lane and onto the shoulder, striking the group.

One Killed and Another Seriously Injured

One of the men suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. A second man sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The other two men suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization.

Authorities have not released the identities of those involved.

SUV Driver Remained at the Scene

CHP reported that the driver of the SUV stopped after the collision and remained at the scene. The driver is cooperating with investigators.

Authorities said driving under the influence is not suspected as a factor in the crash.

Investigators continue to examine why the SUV left the travel lane and struck the men on the shoulder.

Staying Safe During a Roadside Emergency

Stopping on a freeway shoulder can be extremely dangerous because vehicles may be traveling only a few feet away at highway speeds. When a vehicle becomes disabled, motorists should move as far from active traffic as safely possible, activate hazard lights, and avoid standing near travel lanes whenever possible.

Drivers approaching disabled vehicles should remain attentive, stay within their lane, and provide additional space when people or emergency vehicles are present along the shoulder.

Roadside Collision & Wrongful Death Legal Services

When a motorist strays onto the shoulder and strikes pedestrians or stopped vehicles, negligent parties can be held legally accountable. Victims injured in roadside accidents—and families who have lost a loved one—may be entitled to financial recovery under California law.

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

Available Compensation

• Personal Injury: Coverage for medical bills, future treatment, lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
• Wrongful Death: Financial support for funeral expenses, loss of income, burial costs, and the loss of emotional support and companionship.

How Legal Representation Helps

An experienced attorney will conduct a thorough, independent investigation into the crash. This includes securing crash site evidence, examining vehicle telematics, reviewing roadway design, and identifying all liable parties to build a compelling claim.

Speak with the Law Offices of Ed Smith. If you or a family member suffered injuries or loss in a freeway or roadside accident anywhere in Sacramento County, the Law Offices of Ed Smith offers dedicated legal support. For decades, our team has advocated for accident victims across Sacramento, Elk Grove, Rancho Cordova, Carmichael, Citrus Heights, Folsom, and nearby Northern California cities.

Call (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for a free, confidential consultation, or explore your legal options online at AutoAccident.com.