SHAFTER, CA—On the early morning of Sunday, June 29, 2025, a single-vehicle crash killed a 34-year-old man after he collided with a power pole, according to KGET, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 2:54 a.m. on Kimberlina Road, west of Wallace Road.
Investigators say the man was driving a 2006 Nissan Maxima eastbound on Kimberlina Road at an unknown speed when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the north edge of the road. The car continued onto the dirt shoulder and crashed into a power pole. The impact was severe enough to eject the driver from the vehicle. Emergency personnel arriving at the scene pronounced him dead.
Authorities have not released the man’s name pending notification of next of kin. It remains unknown whether alcohol or drugs were contributing factors. The crash also damaged utility infrastructure, prompting a response from Pacific Gas & Electric.
CHP’s Bakersfield Area office continues to investigate the cause of the incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact their office.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
