A passenger was killed and several others injured in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 65 in Kern County Sunday evening.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 7:23 p.m. on July 6, 2025, just north of Minneola Avenue. CHP investigators say a 55-year-old man driving a 2013 Toyota Sienna attempted to pass a 2005 Ford F-350 that was towing a trailer.
While trying to overtake the truck, the Toyota moved into the northbound lane, then abruptly swerved back into the southbound lane upon spotting oncoming traffic. The maneuver resulted in a collision with the front end of the Ford.
The Toyota overturned, ejecting one of the passengers, who died at the scene. The driver and two other passengers in the Toyota sustained moderate to major injuries and were transported to Kern Medical Center. No injuries were reported in the Ford.
Authorities closed both directions of Highway 65 for four hours. CHP does not believe drugs or alcohol were factors.
