Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Discovery Bay man dies in multi-vehicle Highway 4 crash in Antioch Friday

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By CHP – Contra Costa

Friday afternoon at about 1:38 pm, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a four-vehicle crash on Hwy-4 westbound, east of Hillcrest Avenue. Upon emergency personnel and CHP arrival, it was determined that four vehicles were involved. (A black Chevrolet Tahoe, a white Infiniti G37, a grey Toyota Corolla, and a white semi-truck trailer.)

It appears that the driver of the Infiniti drove between the semi-truck and the Chevrolet Tahoe and collided into the side of the Tahoe. The driver of the Tahoe (56-year-old male from Discovery Bay) lost control and veered the Tahoe across all lanes to the right side of the road and crashed into the guard rail. Then subsequently careened off the guard rail and back into the lanes where it was struck by the semi-truck, and then continued across the lanes towards the center divider, where it was then struck by the Toyota Corolla. Tragically the 56-year-old male driver from the Tahoe sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. No other drivers from the other vehicles involved were transported to any hospital. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office will be handling the release of identity of the deceased male.

Alcohol or drugs are not suspected to be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation. If anyone witnessed it or the events leading up to it and have not yet spoken with CHP, please contact Contra Costa CHP in Martinez, (925) 646-4980.

 

DUI driver, a Knightsen teen, arrested for killing two teen pedestrians on Byron Hwy Saturday night

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Victims from Bay Point and Oakley identified

By CHP – Contra Costa

Saturday night, Sept. 4, 2021, at approximately 11:14 pm, CHP Contra Costa was advised of a vehicle vs. pedestrians collision at 8321 Byron Hwy in Knightsen. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, two pedestrians had been struck by a vehicle and that vehicle (a 2002 Subaru Impreza), along with the driver (18-year-old male from Knightsen), were also located. Tragically both pedestrians were killed as a result of the crash (18-year-old female from Bay Point and 16-year-old male from Oakley).

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office identified the deceased pedestrians as Kassandra Sepulveda of Bay Point and Luis Esparza of Oakley.

The 18-year-old driver of the Subaru was investigated for DUI at the scene and subsequently placed under arrest for suspicion of Felony DUI driving, resulting in the death of both pedestrians. The driver was transported to the Martinez detention facility and booked into jail for: FELONY DUI 23153(a)VC and Gross Vehicular Manslaughter 191.5(a)PC.

The suspected DUI and Manslaughter driver is Colby Sharver.

One person killed another injured in Hwy 4 shooting in Concord Saturday evening

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Shuts down westbound lanes for several hours; suspect flees scene

By CHP-Contra Costa

This evening at about 6:35pm, a freeway shooting occurred on State Route 4 westbound, just east of Port Chicago Highway in Concord. One victim succumbed to their injuries from gunshot wounds and another victim suffered moderate injuries due to gunshot wounds. The victims were in a black Toyota Camry. The unknown suspect vehicle fled the scene. As a result of the shooting, the victim vehicle crashed into the metal guard rail at the top of the Port Chicago offramp.

CHP has shut down all westbound lanes of HWY4 in the area for scene processing and collection of evidence. At this time, we do not have an estimated time of re-opening the freeway but expect it to be closed for at least a few hours. We will provide updates as soon as we can.

This is an ongoing investigation with Detectives assigned to CHP – Golden Gate Division Special Investigations Unit (SIU) who are actively investigating this shooting. Our detectives are requesting assistance from the public in gathering the details surrounding this incident. If you or anyone you know have any information that might be helpful, please call the CHP Investigative Tipline at 707-917-4491.

CHP Maximum Enforcement Period: Slow down for a safe and sane Independence Day

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Many Californians are looking forward to a three-day weekend this year for Independence Day. Even though people are eager to travel and get together with family and friends, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is urging motorists to slow down and enjoy the holiday.

From 6:01 p.m. on Friday, July 2, through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 5, the CHP will observe a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) focused on speed enforcement. To keep the roadways safe for everyone, all available officers will be watching for motorists who are distracted, speeding, or driving under the influence (DUI). CHP officers will also be on alert for aggressive driving and acts of road rage.

With many motorists expected on the roadways, patience will be key. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination and avoid unsafe driving behavior such as tailgating. Remaining calm and courteous behind the wheel reduces your risk of an unpleasant encounter with other motorists. If you feel you are at risk, call 9-1-1.

“Saving lives is a priority for our officers,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “Motorists will help make everyone’s holiday safer on the road by observing the speed limits, avoiding distractions, staying sober, practicing patience, and being courteous to other drivers.”

During the 2020 Independence Day MEP, at least 36 people were killed in crashes on California roadways. The CHP also made 738 arrests for DUI of alcohol and/or drugs.

This year’s Independence Day MEP also coincides with a speed-related traffic safety effort that the CHP is participating in along with the Oregon State Police and the Washington State Patrol along Interstate 5, which passes through all three states. Officers in the three states will focus on speed violations along the entire stretch of Interstate 5.

“By getting the message out, we are hoping for voluntary compliance from motorists,” added Commissioner Ray. “However, officers will be looking for anyone who is speeding or driving impaired and posing a danger on the roadways.”

The most recent nationwide data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows one-fourth of traffic fatalities in 2018 were the result of speeding. In fatal crashes in 2018, nearly half (48 percent) of speeding drivers in passenger vehicles were not using seat belts at the time of the crash.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

 

CHP to conduct Maximum Enforcement during Memorial Day weekend

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By Fran Clader, CHP Director of Communications

Memorial Day is the traditional start to the summer travel season, and this weekend California’s roadways will likely be bustling with activity. To help ensure the safety of motorists throughout the holiday, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will conduct a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).

The Memorial Day MEP will run from 6 p.m. Friday, May 28, to 11:59 p.m. Monday, May 31, and focus on properly using seat belts. During the MEP, all available CHP officers will be out enforcing traffic safety laws throughout the state. Officers will be watching carefully for distracted drivers and those who are impaired by drugs or alcohol.

“Seat belts save lives every day, yet some people still don’t buckle up,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray. “Start the holiday weekend off right by making sure you and your passengers are properly restrained.”

Approximately 78 percent of people killed in a crash within CHP jurisdiction during the 2020 Memorial Day MEP were not wearing a seat belt. Statewide, at least 31 people died in a crash during the holiday weekend. In addition, CHP officers made 854 arrests for impaired driving during the 78-hour traffic safety campaign.

Motorists are also reminded to protect child passengers through the proper use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts. The law requires that, whenever possible, children under 8 ride in the back seat and that a child under 2 is always secured in a rear-facing car seat.

To reinforce the importance of seat belt usage, the CHP also is participating in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s ongoing “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which runs May 17 – June 6.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Filed Under: CHP

CHP investigating shooting of two people on Hwy 4 in Pittsburg Thursday night

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A shooting occurred on westbound SR-4, west of Railroad Avenue at around 10:00 PM Thursday night, May 6, 2021. A driver and his passenger were shot at in what appears to be an attempted road rage incident. The driver and passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result of this shooting and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The unknown suspect fled the scene in an unknown vehicle subsequent to the shooting.

Detectives assigned to CHP – Golden Gate Division Special Investigations Unit (SIU) are actively investigating this shooting. Our detectives are requesting assistance from the public in gathering the details surrounding this incident. If you or anyone you know have any information that might be helpful, please call the CHP Investigative Tipline at 707.917.4491.

CHP: Motorcycle safety requires everyone’s attention

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By Jaime Coffee, Information Officer II, California Highway Patrol

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The warming weather and increasing number of vehicles traveling on California’s roadways offer a timely reminder of the importance of motorcycle safety awareness for motorcyclists and motorists alike.  By recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) emphasizes safe riding and driving practices for everyone.

“Motorcyclists who are responsible, informed, and properly equipped can help reduce rider deaths and injuries,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said.  “Motorists are also key to reducing crashes by being aware of the dangers and challenges of motorcycle riding.  Taking the time to look twice for motorcyclists can save a life.”

“Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable out in the elements, which is why it is important for drivers to always be mindful of riders,” California Office of Traffic Safety Director Barbara Rooney said.

With more than 1.4 million licensed riders, motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation for Californians, another reason motorcycle safety awareness is paramount.  Preliminary data from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System show more than 500 people were killed in motorcycle-involved crashes in California in 2020 and more than 11,500 people were injured.

As part of its continual motorcycle safety program, the CHP strongly encourages all riders, new and experienced, to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP).  The CMSP has 98 training sites throughout the state and trains approximately 55,000 motorcyclists each year.  For more information or to find a training site near you, visit californiamotorcyclist.com  or motorcyclesafetyca.com.

Motorcyclists can help protect themselves by always wearing the proper safety gear, including a U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmet, observing the speed limit, riding defensively, and always riding sober.  Drivers should always look at their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and always keep a safe distance.

The CHP promotes motorcycle safety with the Get Educated and Ride Safe (GEARS) program, funded by a $750,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  All eight CHP field Divisions will hold outreach events to promote motorcycle safety throughout 2021 under the GEARS grant.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

 

 

Filed Under: CHP

Driver shot in neck on Hwy 4 crashes car in Pittsburg Thursday night

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Doesn’t appear random

By CHP – Contra Costa

This evening at approximately 8:34pm, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a possible freeway shooting incident that occurred in the area of HWY-4 eastbound on the Railroad Avenue off-ramp. The victim (adult male in his twenties) was driving a blue 2018 Honda Accord and was the sole occupant. The victim related he did not have information regarding the suspect(s) or suspect vehicle. He was transported to John Muir Hospital for a gunshot wound but is expected to survive. This does NOT appear to be a random shooting.

According to a CBSN Bay Area report, the driver was shot in the neck and crashed his car.

This is an ongoing investigation and all the information we have at this time. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident, call Contra Costa CHP at (925)646-4980.

Allen Payton contributed to this report.

 

Car struck, young passenger injured during Hwy 4 shooting near Pacheco Monday

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By CHP – Contra Costa

Monday afternoon, April 26, 2021, at approximately 12:45 pm, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a possible freeway shooting incident that occurred one hour prior (11:45am) in the area of HWY-4 westbound at I-680. The victim (adult female) self-transported herself along with her child (juvenile female) to John Muir Hospital. Once there the hospital staff notified law enforcement.

According to the victim, she was driving westbound on HWY-4 near I-680 when she observed a white sedan pull alongside, attempting to gain her attention.  She continued driving and then heard several gunshots as the vehicle drove passed her.  Her vehicle was struck and her daughter sustained a minor abrasion to her head as a result of the gunshots. The victim described the white sedan occupied by two black male adults and the passenger firing the gun.

This is an ongoing investigation and all the information we have at this time to release. Anyone with information regarding this shooting incident, the white sedan, or occupants inside is encouraged to call Contra Costa CHP at (925)646-4980.  We are thankful the little girl and her mother did not suffer more serious injuries.

CHP to honor dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week April 11-17

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Telecommunications personnel are crucial link

By Fran Clader, Director of Communications, California Highway Patrol

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Public safety dispatchers, often the first assistance people reach in an emergency, provide a crucial link between the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the public. In recognition of their service, the CHP joins other law enforcement agencies to recognize National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week on April 11-17, 2021.

California legislation enacted in 2020 reclassified public safety dispatchers as “first responders.” The new classification acknowledges their vital role in the state’s emergency response chain.

“As recognized first responders in California, our CHP public safety dispatchers and operators remain resilient in times of crisis,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “They are devoted professionals who provide the timely handling of all calls for services and are the lifeline between the public and emergency services.”

The CHP employs more than 700 dispatchers who provide critical services to communities throughout California. In 2020, these dispatchers who work out of one of the 24 CHP communications centers statewide handled more than 4.9 million 9-1-1 calls from the public.

In emergency situations, dispatchers must instantly determine the correct response to ensure the safety of all parties involved. They are also in constant communication with patrol officers, looking up license plates, driver license numbers, and running criminal record checks on wanted subjects.

Those interested in a rewarding career as a CHP public safety dispatcher are encouraged to apply for one of the more than 175 positions available statewide. Details are available at www.chp.ca.gov/chp-careers.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.