Contra Costa Herald

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

New Year, New Laws: CHP highlights public safety laws taking effect in 2026

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By Jaime Coffee, CHP Director of Communications, Office of Media Relations

SACRAMENTO — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is committed to keeping the public informed so they can make the safest choices for themselves and their families. As part of this effort, the CHP is highlighting new public safety laws passed during this year’s legislative session and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. Unless otherwise noted, these laws take effect January 1, 2026.

CRIMES

Crimes: Burglary Tools (AB 486, Lackey)

Assembly Bill 486 makes it a misdemeanor to possess a key programming device, a key duplicating device, or a signal extender with the intent to commit burglary. The offense can result in up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

This bill expands existing law by adding those three tools to the list of tools illegal to possess with the intent to commit burglary.

ELECTRIC BICYCLE SAFETY

Electric Bicycles: Required Equipment (AB 544, Davies)

Assembly Bill 544 mandates that electric bicycles must have a red reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector on the rear during all hours of operation, not just during darkness as the law previously required.

The bill also allows the CHP-developed online electric bicycle safety and training program to fulfill the safety course requirement for minors who receive a helmet violation involving electric bicycles.

Off-highway Electric Motorcycles (SB 586, Jones)

Senate Bill 586 defines an “off-highway electric motorcycle” or “eMoto” as a vehicle that:

  • Is designed primarily for off-highway use
  • Is powered by an electric motor that does not require a motor number
  • Has handlebars for steering, a manufacturer-provided straddle seat, and two wheels
  • Is not equipped with manufacturer-provided pedals

This bill also classifies an off-highway electric motorcycle as an off-highway motor vehicle (OHV), subject to the same rules and regulations. This includes a requirement that a person operating an OHV wear a safety helmet and that every OHV not registered under the Vehicle Code display an identification plate or device issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

Pedestrian Safety: School Zones: Speed Limits (AB 382, Berman)

Assembly Bill 382 allows local authorities to lower the school zone speed limit from 25 to 20 miles per hour by ordinance or resolution through January 1, 2031. After this date, the speed limit will automatically decrease from 25 to 20 miles per hour in school zones when proper signage is posted.

SPEED ENFORCEMENT

State Highway Work Zone Speed Safety Program (AB 289, Haney)

Assembly Bill 289 authorizes the Department of Transportation to establish a work zone speed safety system pilot program. The program will utilize a fixed or mobile radar or laser systems to detect speeding violations and capture a clear photograph of a vehicle’s license plate. Citations will be issued to the vehicle’s registered owner with specified requirements and procedures for program implementation, citation issuance, review, and appeal.

Vehicles: Highway Safety (AB 390, Wilson)

Assembly Bill 390 expands the “slow down and move over” law to include any highway maintenance vehicle or stationary vehicle using flashing hazard lights or warning devices such as cones and road flares. Drivers approaching such a vehicle must move into a lane that is not next to the stopped vehicle or slow down to a safe speed if changing lanes is not possible.

Traffic Safety: Speed Limits (AB 1014, Rogers)

Assembly Bill 1014 authorizes the Department of Transportation to reduce a speed limit by five miles per hour on a highway, and mandates warning citations during the initial 30 days after a speed limit is lowered.

VEHICLE STORAGE

Vehicle Removal (AB 875, Muratsuchi)

Assembly Bill 875 authorizes a peace officer to impound a vehicle for at least 48 hours if the vehicle has fewer than four wheels but does not meet the definition of an electric bicycle,  is powered by an electric motor capable of exclusively propelling the vehicle over 20 MPH on a highway and the operator is not licensed to operate the vehicle or is a class 3 electric bicycle being operated by a person under 16. A safety course may be required as a condition of release if the impoundment involves a child under 16 years old operating a class 3 electric bike as described in Section 312.5 of the Vehicle Code.

2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

The following public safety laws were passed during the 2024 legislative session and will go into effect in 2026.

Electric Bicycles, Powered Mobility Devices and Storage Batteries (SB 1271, Min)

Beginning January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 1271 focuses on improving the safety standards for electric bicycles, powered mobility devices, and related lithium-ion batteries. It requires these devices and their components, such as batteries and charging systems, to be tested by accredited laboratories to meet specific safety standards. The bill also mandates labeling these products to show compliance with safety regulations, ensuring consumers are informed. Furthermore, it prohibits distributing, selling, or leasing e-bikes and related equipment unless they meet these standards, aiming to reduce risks like fire hazards and electrical malfunctions. Beginning January 1, 2028, the bill would prohibit a person from renting or offering for rental an electric bicycle, powered mobility device, charging system, or storage battery unless it has been tested to the specified safety standard.

Autonomous Vehicles (AB 1777, Ting)

Upon the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) adoption of necessary regulations, AB 1777 creates new authority for a law enforcement officer to issue a “notice of autonomous vehicle (AV) noncompliance” to an AV manufacturer for an alleged traffic violation committed by one of their vehicles. Beginning July 1, 2026, AB 1777 establishes additional requirements for how AVs that operate without a human operator in the vehicle interact with first responders, including a requirement for manufacturers to provide a two-way device in the vehicles to communicate with first responders.

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

El Sobrante woman among 13 arrested in statewide organized retail theft investigation

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Stolen merchandise recovered during the CHP’s “Operation Silent Night” targeting an organized retail theft ring. Photos: California Highway Patrol

Operation Silent Night executed in Richmond, 3 other cities, recovers 44,140 stolen items worth more than $800K 

53-year-old Bach Ngoc Thi Bui previously arrested in 2023 for grand theft and organized retail theft

By Officer Ruben Jones, PIO, CHP Valley Division

SACRAMENTO — Thirteen suspects were arrested, and more than $800,000 in stolen merchandise was recovered following a coordinated, multi-agency operation targeting an organized retail theft network operating across Northern California.

In September, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Valley Division Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) was alerted to a pair of retail theft suspects who stole merchandise in Placer County and at multiple other locations throughout the state. The Valley Division ORCTF includes investigators from the CHP, Sacramento Police Department and the Placer County District Attorney’s Office.

On October 1, the Rocklin Police Department conducted a traffic stop involving the suspects and requested assistance from the Valley Division ORCTF. During the investigation, the suspects provided information identifying individuals who were purchasing stolen merchandise from them and reselling it for profit. Investigators also learned the stolen goods were being distributed and sold at flea markets in Oakland, San Jose, Galt, Modesto and Stockton.

Based on this information, ORCTF investigators conducted surveillance operations that corroborated the suspects’ statements and established links among the theft suspects, those purchasing and reselling the stolen merchandise, and the flea-market distribution locations. Investigators subsequently obtained multiple search warrants covering six residences, three storage lockers, and one storage lot.

On December 11, a coordinated multi-agency enforcement effort, Operation Silent Night, was executed in Oakland, Richmond, San Leandro and Galt. The operation resulted in the arrest of 13 suspects. Investigators seized two firearms, more than $10,000 in cash, five vans, two passenger vehicles and two trailers. More than 400 boxes and 200 bags of stolen merchandise were recovered, including cosmetics, household goods, clothing, power tools, toys, alcohol, and diapers. All suspects were transported to the Placer County Jail for booking.

Stolen merchandise recovered. Photo: CHP

On December 12, Cal Expo provided an exposition hall to assist with the processing and cataloging of the recovered merchandise. In partnership with affected retailers, investigators documented a total of 44,140 stolen items valued in excess of $800,000.

The following are those who were taken into custody:

  • Bach Ngoc Thi Bui, 53, El Sobrante
  • Isaid Garcia Chapas, 41, Oakland
  • Irene Cruz Barragan, 35, Oakland
  • Daniela Cruz Barragan, 33, Oakland
  • Robert Lorenzo Luna-Varela, 34, Oakland
  • Jefferson Isaed Garcia-Rivera, 22, Oakland
  • Jennifer Garcia Cruz, 19, Oakland
  • Elan Rosales Montes, 35, Oakland
  • Claudia Ivet Cruz Barragan, 42, Oakland
  • Yolanda Carrillo Martinez, 45, Oakland
  • Ivan Miranda Espinoza, 33, Oakland
  • Yuridia Sandoval Ramirez, 35, Oakland
  • Eryn Wilfred Corea Guevara, 29, Oakland

“Organized retail theft is not a victimless crime. It impacts businesses, workers, and communities across California. This investigation highlights the strength of collaboration between law enforcement and our retail partners, and our commitment to holding organized theft networks accountable.”- CHP Valley Division Chief Tyler Eccles

The Placer County District Attorney’s Office announced on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, the filing of criminal charges of organized retail theft, conspiracy to commit felony crimes, receiving stolen property, among numerous allegations against the 13 defendants.

The charges stem from numerous thefts that had occurred within Placer County that culminated in a multiple agency operation last week in Oakland that recovered over $700,000 worth of stolen merchandise and extensive counterfeit merchandise. This collaborative investigation and prosecution is made possible by Placer County’s retail theft initiative.

The defendants appeared in court that afternoon and defense attorneys were appointed to represent them. The next court date was scheduled for December 22 in Department 20 at 8:30 am.

Since the ORCTF’s inception in 2019, the CHP has been involved in over 4,200 investigations, leading to the arrest of more than 4,700 suspects and the recovery of nearly 1.5 million stolen goods valued at over $68.7 million statewide as of November 30.

According to localcrimenews.com, Bui is a female and was also arrested by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department in August 2023 when she was a Pittsburg resident for conspiracy to commit a crime, grand theft, receiving or concealing stolen property and organized retail theft.

The CHP extends its appreciation to all participating law enforcement agencies, task force members, Cal Expo, and retail partners whose collaboration led to the success of this investigation. The case remains ongoing.

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

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

CHP launches Christmas Holiday Enforcement Period Dec. 24 & 25

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‘Tis the season to also slow down!

By Jaime Coffee Director of Communications Office of Media Relations, California Highway Patrol

SACRAMENTO — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) encourages the public to “brake” the habit of speeding this holiday season. The CHP will launch a Christmas Holiday Enforcement Period (HEP) starting at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 24, and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, December 25.

During last year’s 30-hour holiday enforcement effort for Christmas, CHP officers arrested over 300 impaired drivers in just 30 hours, issued 2,251 speeding tickets – including 132 to motorists going over 100 mph. Tragically, during that same time period, at least 17 people lost their lives in crashes across the state.

Every celebration starts with a smart choice. Always designate a sober driver before the festivities begin. If you plan to drink, plan your ride—use a rideshare, public transportation or call a trusted friend. Make this holiday season unforgettable for all the right reasons.

“Every instance of speeding or reckless driving carries the potential for life-changing consequences. Our officers see the destruction these choices can cause, and we urge every driver to slow down, stay alert, and make decisions that protect themselves and others. No destination is worth risking a life.”  – CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee

Removing dangerous drivers from California’s roads remains a top priority for the CHP. To support this goal, the CHP and the Department of Motor Vehicles recently launched Forwarded Actions for Speeding Tickets, or FAST, a pilot program that speeds up the process of removing drivers who exceed 100 mph from the roads. FAST automatically sends these citations to the DMV’s Driver Safety Branch, which can suspend or revoke a license. The CHP has also deployed 100 low-profile, specially marked patrol vehicles that have issued nearly 33,000 speed-related citations since May.

These steps, along with the upcoming Christmas HEP, send a clear message to drivers: slow down or face being stopped. Every decision behind the wheel matters, and obeying the speed limit can make the difference between arriving safely or not at all.

Additionally, winter weather can present significant challenges for motorists, particularly as storms impact roadways across the state. Rain, snow, and debris can quickly change driving conditions, reducing visibility and traction and increasing the risk of collisions.

To help everyone get home safely for the holidays, the CHP urges drivers to slow down, allow extra following distance, and remain alert for hazards such as standing water, rockslides, mud, or icy pavement.

Before traveling, check the weather and road conditions, ensure vehicles are properly equipped, and adjust driving behavior accordingly. Patience and preparedness are critical, as arriving safely is always more important than arriving on time.

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

 

County Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol initiated

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Antioch Police and Con Fire personnel responded to the scene of the fatal collision causing a back-up in the eastbound lanes of Highway 4 between Pittsburg and Antioch Monday morning, Dec. 22, 2025. Video screenshot courtesy of Spotlight CoCoCounty.

Following collision involving DA Senior Inspector killing Antioch assault suspect running on Hwy 4; CHP leads investigation

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – A fatal traffic collision with a pedestrian is under investigation by the California Highway Patrol pursuant to the County Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol.

On Monday, December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:35 a.m., in the area of Delta Fair Blvd. in Antioch, a suspect engaged in a disturbance at Delta Bowl. According to Antioch Police, the initial incident occurred at the Comfort Inn, located at 2436 Mahogany Way, where the 27-year-old male suspect had pulled a fire alarm and then struck a 47-year-old male security guard. As police responded, the suspect climbed over a fence and entered eastbound Highway 4 on foot.

The individual was struck in the roadway by an oncoming county vehicle driven by a District Attorney Senior Inspector whose duties were unrelated to the disturbance. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The California Highway Patrol is the venue agency conducting the traffic collision investigation. The California Department of Justice has been notified. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has yielded legal analysis to avoid a potential conflict of interest. The investigation is ongoing.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Barking Orders, Fighting Crime: CHP’s newest four-legged crime fighters officially promoted to K-9 Officers

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CHP Assistant Commissioner Robin Johnson presents Northern Division Officer Christopher Partlow with K-9 Judge the certificate of completion from POST (Peace Officers Standards and Training) meeting all the requirements, certifying the dog for law enforcement service during the recent graduation ceremony. Photo: CHP

Four K-9s have joined the ranks of the California Highway Patrol after completing rigorous training alongside their handlers and receiving official certification from the CHP

By Jaime Coffee, Director of Communications, Office of Media Relations, CHP

SACRAMENTO — The CHP has added four new K-9 teams to its ranks, furthering the Department’s mission to provide safety, service and security to the people of California.

The graduating class includes three Belgian Malinois and one Dutch Shepherd, each trained to apprehend offenders, detect illegal drugs and enhance officer and public safety.

“Police K-9s have proven their usefulness time and again in the situations officers face daily. They are hardworking, loyal partners who wake up each day ready to serve. Each of these specialized teams has dedicated time and effort to succeed on the streets, and we are excited to welcome them to our team,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.

Over the past 11 weeks, the four K-9 teams completed more than 400 hours of intensive training, meeting the standards set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. The K-9s, trained in criminal apprehension and narcotics detection, also known as Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canines, received their official certification on November 7 during a graduation ceremony at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento.

Each K-9 handler is an experienced CHP officer with seven to 15 years of service. Handlers were carefully paired with their canine partners based on temperament, skill and personality. Throughout training, the teams built strong bonds of trust and communication that will support them throughout their careers.

Following this graduation, the new K-9 teams will report to their assigned CHP Area offices to assist with patrol duties and respond to calls for service in the Northern, Central and Inland Divisions.

BY THE NUMBERS

With this graduating class, the second of 2025, the CHP now deploys 53 K-9 teams statewide:

  • 37 Patrol and Narcotics Detection Canine teams
  • 9 Patrol and Explosives Detection Canine teams
  • 5 Explosives Detection Canine teams
  • 2 Narcotics Detection teams

From January through September 2025, CHP K-9 teams seized nearly 7,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 5,000 pounds of cocaine, 250 pounds of heroin, 750 pounds of fentanyl and 213 firearms, underscoring their critical role in combating drug trafficking and firearm-related crime.

To maintain peak performance, each team completes at least eight hours of ongoing training each week, ensuring readiness for the diverse situations they encounter in the field.

MEET THE CHP’S NEW K-9 TEAMS

Officer Christopher Partlow & K-9 Judge – Northern Division

Officer Christopher Keeler & K-9 Jag – Central Division

Officer Michael Galvez & K-9 Oso – Central Division

Officer Joshua Walker & K-9 Jury – Inland Division

Contra Costa County is located in the Golden Gate Division. Learn more about becoming a CHP K-9 handler or explore the many other rewarding career opportunities at www.CHPMadeForMore.com.

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

CHP Contra Costa welcomes 6 new officers

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Photo: CHP

By CHP – Contra Costa

We are proud to welcome six new officers who recently graduated from the CHP Academy in West Sacramento.

After 26 weeks of rigorous training at the Academy, they will now put their skills to the test as they begin field training for another three months.

Join us in welcoming these new officers as they embark on the next chapter of their new career.

Congratulations and welcome to the California Highway Patrol!

If you aspire to be a part of something greater, we encourage you to consider applying for a career with CHP. Discover the satisfaction of safeguarding your community and making a meaningful impact.

Join the CHP today!

CHP launches Halloween Maximum Enforcement Period to target impaired drivers

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CHiPPER says don’t drink and drive on Halloween or ever! Photo: CHP

All available Officers deployed statewide to keep roads safe during 12-hour operation

6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 – 6 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1

By Jaime Coffee, CHP Director of Communications, Office of Media Relations

SACRAMENTO—The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will launch a 12-hour Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 p.m. Friday, October 31, through 6 a.m. Saturday, November 1, to protect motorists and prevent impaired driving. During the operation, all available CHP officers will be on patrol statewide, focusing on identifying and arresting impaired drivers before they cause harm.

“Impaired driving destroys lives, and even one life lost is one too many. This Halloween, we’re asking everyone to do their part before the festivities begin, arrange a sober ride and help us keep California’s roads safe for everyone who uses them.” – CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination of both can have deadly consequences. On average, more than 800 fatal crashes involving impaired drivers claim over 900 lives each year in California, reinforcing the CHP’s commitment to removing impaired drivers from the road.

Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and cannabis products can all affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Penalties for Impaired Driving

Drivers arrested for driving under the influence face serious penalties, including:

  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Fines
  • Mandatory DUI education programs
  • Jail time

During last year’s 12-hour Halloween MEP, officers investigated nearly 500 crashes statewide. About 90 of those involved impaired drivers, resulting in two deaths and more than 60 injuries. CHP officers also made nearly 120 DUI arrests during that period.

For more information about DUI penalties, visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Make the Right Choice

To help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, the CHP urges motorists to:

  • Designate a sober driver.
  • Use ride-sharing services, taxis or public transit.
  • Never drive impaired or ride with someone who is.

If you see someone who appears to be driving impaired, call 9-1-1 immediately.

“Whether it’s Halloween or any night of the year, the decision to drive sober can save a life,” Commissioner Duryee added. “Together, we can make our roads safer and prevent tragedies before they happen.”

The CHP reminds all drivers to make responsible choices behind the wheel — never drive under the influence, always wear your seat belt and follow the speed limit.

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

Largest CHP graduating class in nearly 16 years adds strength to ranks

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New CHP Officers were sworn in during a ceremony on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. Photo: CHP

146 among 600 CHP officers sworn in so far in 2025 as the Department continues statewide push to enhance public safety.

By Jaime Coffee Director of Communications Office of Media Relations

SACRAMENTO—In the largest graduation since December 2009, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, proudly welcomed 146 new officers, underscoring the Department’s enduring commitment to public safety and public service in California.

After 26 weeks of rigorous training at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento, these newly sworn officers are prepared to carry forward the CHP’s mission of Safety, Service, and Security, which not only strengthens the Department today but also builds a stronger foundation for the generations of officers to come.

“Today’s graduates embody the heart of service and sacrifice that defines our profession. These men and women have chosen the path of dedication to others, and we are proud to welcome them into the ranks of law enforcement as they begin their journey to protect and serve California’s communities with integrity and compassion.”  – Commissioner Sean Duryee

These new officers will now report to one of the CHP’s 102 Area offices across California to start their law enforcement careers, protecting and serving communities throughout the state’s 58 counties.

The graduates bring a broad range of skills and experiences to the Department, reflecting their diverse backgrounds. Among them are former college athletes, military veterans, and correctional officers, as well as others with prior public safety experience.

During academy training, cadets receive instruction in traffic enforcement, crash investigation, defensive tactics, firearms, emergency vehicle operations and community policing. The curriculum also focuses on legal responsibilities, communication, ethics and cultural awareness to prepare cadets to serve California’s diverse population.

New CHP Officers are pinned with their badges on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. Photo: CHP

Following Friday’s graduation ceremony, nearly 300 cadets remain at the CHP’s live-in training facility, and an additional 160 cadets are set to start instruction on October 13 as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety across the state.

See video of ceremony.

The CHP continues to actively recruit dedicated individuals who are ready to make a difference in communities throughout California. A career with the CHP offers comprehensive training, competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

To learn more about joining the CHP, please visit www.CHPMadeForMore.com to take the first step towards a rewarding career in law enforcement.

The CHP provides the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to everyone in California.

 

West County: Sideshow spectator dies after fall from I-80 on-ramp

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A Saturday night sideshow in Crockett ends in death of 16-year-old male spectator. Video screenshot source: KTVU FOX 2

16-year-old boy fell 75 feet

By CHP – Contra Costa

CROCKETT, Calif. – On Saturday, September 13th, 2025, at approximately, 3:26 a.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office received a call of sideshow activity involving over 100 vehicles blocking the intersection of Pomona Street and Merchant Street, near the Interstate 80 (I-80) westbound on-ramp / off-ramp for Pomona Street.

Officers from CHP and Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene to assist. Shortly after arriving, CHP received reports of a spectator who climbed over the concrete safety barrier at an elevated portion of the Pomona Street on-ramp to I-80 westbound and fell approximately 75 feet to the ground below.

UPDATE: Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs for the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, later identified the decedent as Jose Cuevas, 16 years old, out of Harbor City, CA.

Officers then responded to the secondary location directly under the Pomona Street on-ramp to I-80 westbound to assist.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a 16-year-old male climbed over the on-ramp’s concrete safety barrier and accidentally fell to the ground below. The fall resulted in fatal injuries to the juvenile, and tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

This incident remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact CHP’s Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

When asked, CHP – Contra Costa PIO Dan Gilmore said the victim’s city of residence was not available. Please check back later for details from the Contra Costa Coroner’s Office.

See video and more details in report by KTVU FOX 2.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Fatal two-vehicle head-on crash in Discovery Bay

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Leaves one driver dead, the other with major injuries

By CHP – Contra Costa

DISCOVERY BAY, CA – On Thursday, August 14, 2025, at approximately 10:19 a.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office responded to a two-vehicle head-on crash which occurred on State Route 4 (SR-4) westbound, just east of Discovery Bay Blvd. in the township of Discovery Bay.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a Toyota Camry, driven by an adult male, was traveling eastbound on SR-4 when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed over the double-yellow divider lines and crashed head-on into a GMC Sierra occupied by a male adult.

Tragically, the driver of the Toyota sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC sustained suspected major injuries and was airlifted to the hospital. An impaired driving investigation was also conducted, and DUI was ruled out as a factor in this crash.

This crash remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.