SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY, CA – Three people lost their lives in a devastating wrong-way crash on Highway 12 Sunday afternoon. Authorities have identified the victims as 25-year-old Angela Maldonado of Lockeford, 21-year-old Skyy Richardson of Stockton, and 37-year-old Simon Onesavanh of Stockton. The collision occurred around 3:40 p.m. east of Clements Road, according to the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that a Ford Fiesta was traveling east on Highway 12 when the driver lost control for unknown reasons. The vehicle spun into the westbound lanes and was struck on the side by an oncoming Toyota Tacoma. The impact resulted in catastrophic damage, killing three of the Ford’s occupants at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that none of the individuals in the Ford were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Two additional passengers in the Ford sustained severe injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver and passenger of the Toyota Tacoma suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization.
Investigators are working to determine what caused the driver of the Ford Fiesta to lose control. While the exact cause remains under investigation, CHP officials suspect alcohol may have been a factor in the crash. Toxicology reports and further analysis will provide additional insight into the circumstances leading up to the collision.
This tragic accident highlights the importance of responsible driving and seat belt use. Law enforcement officials stress that seat belts can significantly reduce the risk of fatalities in accidents and remind motorists to drive cautiously, especially on high-speed roadways like Highway 12.
CHP continues to investigate the crash and urges anyone with information to contact their office. As authorities work to piece together the details, the community mourns the loss of three lives in a tragedy that may have been preventable.
