On May 29th,2018, at approximately 9:34a.m, Merced communication Center was advised of a head-on collision in the area of Yosemite Avenue, East of Kibby Road. CHP further advised a vehicle was overturned, one party had been ejected, and one subject was possibly deceased, officers from the California Highway Patrol Merced area responded to the scene and arrived at approximately 9:40a.m.

During the course of the investigation it was determined that the 1996 Nissan was traveling westbound on Yosemite Avenue. A male adult was a passenger on the Nissan. The identity of this passenger is currently unknown and listed as a “John Doe” A 2000 Honda was traveling eastbound on Yosemite Avenue. The driver identified as 46-year-old Brian Martin and right front passenger of the Honda was verbally identified as Michelle Crowder. Ms. Crowder’s city of residence is unknown and she is believed to be approximately 60 Years of age.

While traveling westbound on Yosemite Avenue the driver of the Nissan entered the eastbound lane and attempted to pass a commercial vehicle. For unknown reason, the driver of the Nissan failed to observe the close proximity of the Honda, which was traveling on the eastbound traffic lane. According to witness statement, the driver of the Nissan did not take any evasive action or otherwise attempt to avoid the Honda. As a result, the Nissan struck the Honda head on, resulting in the Honda traveling in a southerly direction off the south shoulder of Yosemite Avenue. The Nissan continued to overturn in a northwesterly and came to rest on the north shoulder of Yosemite Avenue.

Both Drivers were pronounced deceased at the scene. John Doe the passenger of the Nissan was transported to Mercy Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Ms. Crowder, who sustained major injuries was transported by air to Memorial Hospital in Modesto, and John Harris 46-year-old driver of the Nissan according to comments from family on previous post.

The collision is under investigation and it is unknown if alcohol/drugs is a factor in this collision.