Merced County, CA – Authorities Identify Man Killed after Fatal Head-On Collision on Highway 165 near San Joaquin River

Merced County, CA (August 21, 2018) – Authorities have provided updated information concerning the man who died as the result of a violent collision with a semi-truck that took place along Highway 165, in the vicinity of the San Joaquin River. The fatal accident transpired at approximately 7:30 PM in the evening on Saturday, August 18, 2018. As of today, the Merced County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as 31-year old Bryan Munoz, of Pittsburg.

Based on the California Highway Patrol report, Munoz had been driving a Kia south on 165 when, for indeterminate reasons, he veered into opposing traffic. Without warning, his vehicle plowed into an oncoming 2017 Peterbilt big rig truck.

Sometime later, emergency crews arrived at the crash site and sadly reported that Munoz had died.

Meanwhile, medical personnel transported the truck driver, 50-year old Mendota resident Raul Rangel, to Memorial Medical Center, where he received treatment for non-life threatening injuries.

Presently, the California Highway Patrol has assumed authority over the ongoing investigation into the deadly accident. As more evidence continues to surface, more information will be released to public sources.

We extend our most heartfelt prayers and our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bryan Munoz and wish them strength and peace of mind during this difficult, tragic time.

Fatal Head-on Collision in Merced County

Given the circumstances, officials are still unsure of why the victim swerved into oncoming traffic along Highway 165. A thorough examination of the Kia and the Peterbilt and photos of the crash site will help officials determine if mechanical issues or system failure contributed to the crash in any way. Likewise, authorities will consider if drugs, alcohol, negligence, recklessness, or distracted driving played any role in the events leading up to the accident.

Once the case is resolved, the members of Munoz’s family may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the guilty party and, ultimately, receive compensation for funeral expenses and the tragic loss of a loved one, amongst other unfortunate circumstances.

We at Brady Law Group will work with you to ensure your rights and give you the peace of mind needed to focus on your recovery.

If you’ve been injured as the result of another person’s negligence, please call us at (866) 211-2562 to receive a free consultation with one of our expert attorneys.

Note: Outside sources were used in the creation of this post including news bulletins and first-hand accounts of the accident and injuries involved. As a result, the details of the accident presented have not been independently verified by our own writing staff. If you have identified any false information in the story, please inform us immediately, and we will adjust the posting to reflect the most accurate content available.

Disclaimer: As a member of the local community, we at Brady Law Group strive to improve the overall safety and quality of life for everyone who lives in our beloved state. We are extremely saddened by these accidents but hope that, through an awareness of these dangers, those in our community will take precautions to avoid these accidents. This is not a solicitation for business, and this information should not be misconstrued as medical or legal advice. We wish only the best and quickest recovery for all those involved in the accident.