[06-19-2025] Fresno County, CA – One Killed in Three-Car Crash That Sparked Grass Fire on I-5 Near Highway 145 in Coalinga

One person was killed in a three-car crash that sparked a wildfire along Interstate 5 near Coalinga on Thursday night, June 19, 2025.

According to authorities, the collision occurred near the junction of I-5 and Highway 145. The crash ignited nearby vegetation, triggering what is now being called the Coal Fire, which has burned over 90 acres.

Strong winds in the area contributed to the rapid spread of flames, which were caught on a time-lapse video showing dust whipping across the roadway moments before the fire broke out.

Traffic came to a standstill as both northbound and southbound lanes of I-5 were closed. The California Highway Patrol issued precautionary alerts advising stranded drivers to abandon their vehicles if they felt unsafe due to the approaching fire. Officials later clarified that only the vehicles involved in the crash were overtaken by flames.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In Coalinga, CA

A car accident, especially one resulting in a death and causing a wildfire, can be devastating. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident like this, understanding your legal rights and the steps to take next is essential.

Our experienced car accident lawyers in Coalinga are here to offer guidance during this difficult time. We can help you navigate the legal process, assist with gathering evidence, and explain the options available to you. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies or need legal advice, we’re here to provide support.

For a free consultation, reach out to us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Car Accident

After a serious car accident, especially one involving fatalities and additional complications like a wildfire, it’s important to take the proper steps to ensure safety and protect your legal rights. Here’s what we recommend you do:

1. Prioritize Safety And Get To A Safe Location
   If you’re involved in the crash or are near the scene, your first priority is safety. Move away from the area if you can, especially if a fire has started. If you are a witness, avoid the crash site and stay clear of any danger zones. Follow any evacuation orders issued by authorities.
2. Call Emergency Services
   Immediately report the crash to 911. In a situation like this, emergency responders will need to provide medical assistance to the injured, help contain the fire, and secure the area. Law enforcement will also investigate the scene and create a report of the accident.
3. Cooperate With Authorities
   If you are involved in the crash, cooperate with law enforcement and emergency personnel. Give them the information they need about the crash and the situation. If you are a witness to the wildfire’s spread, your testimony may be crucial to the investigation.
4. Gather Evidence (If Safe To Do So)
   Once the area is secure, try to gather important details. This includes taking photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, collect contact information from witnesses. This information will help document the incident and assist with legal or insurance matters.
5. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to visit a doctor right away. Injuries may not be immediately obvious. Seeking medical attention ensures that any injuries are documented and helps you understand the impact on your health.
6. Contact A Lawyer
   If the crash results in a fatality or serious injuries, it’s important to consult with a lawyer who has experience in car accidents. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options, guide you through the claims process, and provide support as you deal with the aftermath.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

In 2023, the number of deaths from car accidents went down for the second year in a row, dropping by 3%. This came after a 2% decrease in 2022. The decline in fatalities follows a big increase of 20% from 2019 to 2021. In total, 44,762 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2023, which is fewer than the 46,027 deaths in 2022 and 46,980 in 2021.

In 2022, car accidents caused 5.1 million injuries that needed medical care. The total cost of these accidents was about $513.8 billion, which includes things like lost wages, medical bills, property damage, and other costs related to the crashes.