Man Killed, David Barajas and Steven Mahoney Injured in Wrong-Way Crash on Highway 198 [Hanford, CA]

Wrong-Way Crash on Highway 198 in Hanford Kills One and Injures Five Other People

 
HANFORD, CA (December 4, 2023) – A 24-year-old man died in a wrong-way crash on Highway 198 in Hanford early Sunday morning on December 3.
 
The fatal crash happened around 1:50 a.m. just east of 12th Avenue. According to the California Highway Patrol, 37-year-old David Barajas was driving a Ford F-250 in the first lane of the eastbound highway. At the same time, 63-year-old Steven Mahoney was driving a Kia Soul in the second lane.
 
The unidentified victim was driving a Toyota Corolla the wrong way towards Barajas and Mahoney. He then crashed head-on into the Ford.
 
The impact of the initial crash caused the Corolla to burst into flames, killing the driver.
 
Barajas’s Ford then overturned, landing in front of Mahoney’s Kia resulting in another crash.
 
Barajas was airlifted to the hospital in an unknown condition. His two passengers were taken to the hospital by ambulance with unspecified injuries.

Mahoney and his passenger sustained minor injuries and were also taken to the hospital.

At this time, it is unknown if alcohol or drugs played a factor in the crash. Further investigation is underway.

We offer our sincere condolences to the loved ones of the victim.

In the devastating aftermath of a car accident leading to the loss of a loved one, turn to The Law Offices of Daniel Kim for compassionate support. Our seasoned wrongful death lawyers are ready to guide you through this challenging period. With a commitment to handling police reports, insurance claims, and medical bills directly, we allow you the space to focus on healing. Recognizing the tactics of insurance companies, we advocate for you to secure maximum compensation for pain and suffering, actively countering their unfair and aggressive approaches. Call (800) 895-7199 today to schedule your free consultation. Working on a contingency basis, our fee is contingent on winning your case. Additionally, you can request a copy of the accident’s police report.