Wiley M. Elick, 82, a well-known children’s dentist in Hanford, died Saturday after his Tesla Model 3 was struck head-on by an out-of-control Honda Accord at Grangeville Boulevard and 15th Avenue, the California Highway Patrol said.
Investigators said the 2014 Accord was travelling east about 11 a.m. when it veered off the roadway, then swerved back into the westbound lane for unknown reasons and collided with Elick’s 2024 Tesla. The impact trapped four occupants.
Elick, taken to Adventist Health Hanford, succumbed to his injuries. His wife and a young granddaughter, riding with him, were treated for moderate injuries. The Honda’s 27-year-old driver also suffered non-life-threatening trauma, officers said.
CHP is examining whether distraction, mechanical failure or impairment played a role; no arrests have been made. Traffic was blocked for roughly two hours while debris was cleared.
Elick, who practiced pediatric dentistry locally for decades, was remembered by patients and colleagues as a caring community figure. An online memorial and fundraiser have been set up by family members.
