[04-26-2026] Merced County, CA – Multiple Injured, Including Three Juveniles, in Wrong-Way Crash on SR-99

Multiple people, including three juveniles, were injured in a head-on crash involving a wrong-way driver in Merced County, early Sunday morning, April 26, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision was reported at around 12:48 a.m. on southbound State Route 99, north of Atwater Boulevard.

Authorities stated that a 2019 Honda Civic traveling the wrong way northbound in the southbound lanes collided head-on with a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox traveling southbound. The crash resulted in major injuries to multiple occupants.

Three juveniles were transported to the Children’s Medical Center in Madera with moderate to major injuries. Two adult women were also transported to separate hospitals with major injuries.

Investigators identified the drivers as Diane R., 35, of Antioch, and Humberto C., 33, of Merced. Authorities reported that both drivers were under the influence of alcohol and were arrested on suspicion of DUI.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.