[08-16-2026] Kern County, CA – Three Killed, Four Injured in Wrong-Way Crash on Highway 99 in Bakersfield

Three people were killed, and four others were injured in an apparent wrong-way, multi-vehicle crash on Highway 99 in Bakersfield early Sunday morning, August 16, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 12:45 a.m. on Highway 99 just north of Seventh Standard Road. The crash involved a Honda Accord, a BMW, and a Chevrolet pickup truck.

CHP said one of the vehicles was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes before the collision. The Honda caught fire, and all three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released their identities.

Two occupants of the BMW sustained major injuries, while two occupants of the Chevrolet suffered minor injuries.

CHP has not determined whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the collision.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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.