On January 17, 2024, at 6:44 p.m. Kern County firefighters responded to a report of a vehicle accident on Highway 65 just north of Highway 155. On their arrival, firefighters found 2 vehicles rolled over with one of the vehicles fully involved with fire. A patient was lying in the roadway and debris was scattered across the lanes. Bystanders had bravely pulled the patient out of the burning vehicle prior to firefighter arrival. The crews immediately moved the patient out of the roadway and began medical treatment.

The patient, who had serious injuries, repeatedly requested that firefighters thank the bystanders who had intervened.

Meanwhile, a firefighter pulled a hoseline and attacked the vehicle fire. An ambulance crew investigated the second vehicle finding 2 deceased occupants pinned inside. The surrounding area was searched for additional victims. The final patient count was 2 deceased and 1 with major injuries. A medevac helicopter was requested to launch for transportation of the living patient. Firefighters identified a safe landing zone for the helicopter and assisted loading the patient when the air ambulance arrived. 

Fire crews remained on scene, assisting the CHP and the Kern County Coroner. No injuries to firefighters were reported. The cause is under investigation by CHP. 

The Kern County Fire Department would like to remind all travelers of the heightened risk we encounter on a two-lane highway. The margin for error is minimal as we pass just feet away from the oncoming traffic. Please be safe out there!