Driver killed in fiery crash after crashing into tree on Highway 99 near Turlock
A driver was killed early Tuesday when the vehicle struck a tree along northbound Highway 99 in Turlock, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Officers received a call at about 12:23 a.m. reporting a crash just north of West Main Street. When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, they found a Chevrolet SUV fully engulfed in fire.
Preliminary findings indicate the driver had been traveling north in the number one lane when the vehicle veered to the right, left the roadway and struck a tree.
The impact caused the SUV to catch fire, which crews quickly extinguished.
The driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.
It is not yet known whether the driver was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash or if drugs or alcohol were factors.
The identity of the driver will be made public by the Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office once next of kin has been notified.
