Eastbound Tesla collided with westbound Subaru that crossed the center line west of Kennedy Road
February 19, 2026 | Stanislaus, CA
A tragic head-on collision claimed one life and left four others with serious injuries on State Route 108/120 east of Oakdale, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Caleb Saenz, 26, was seriously injured after a head-on crash involving a Subaru and Tesla on State Route 108/120 east of Oakdale.
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident unfolded around 2:56 p.m. when a gray Subaru sedan, driven by an Oakdale woman, veered across the center line while traveling westbound. The vehicle collided head-on with an eastbound 2019 Tesla sedan west of Kennedy Road.
- Date and Time: Feb. 19, approximately 2:56 p.m.
- Location: State Route 108/120, east of Oakdale, west of Kennedy Road, Stanislaus County
- Vehicles Involved: Gray Subaru sedan, westbound, and 2019 Tesla sedan, eastbound
- Fatalities: Driver of the Subaru was pronounced dead at the scene
- Injuries: Four occupants of the Tesla suffered major injuries and were taken to Oak Valley Medical Center
- Identified Victim: Passenger in Tesla, 26-year-old Caleb Saenz of Modesto
- Contributing Factors: Investigation ongoing, and no immediate confirmation of drugs or alcohol involvement
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, with preliminary reports pointing to the Subaru crossing into oncoming traffic.
Why Do Head-On Crashes Occur?
Head-on collisions, though less common than other accidents, rank among the deadliest due to the intense forces at play. Factors often include distracted driving, speeding, improper lane usage, and road conditions.
Common Causes of Head-On Crashes |
Description |
Source |
|---|
Crossing Center Line |
Vehicles veer into oncoming lanes due to inattention or impairment |
Federal Highway Administration |
Speeding |
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases crash severity |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
Distracted Driving |
Use of phones or other distractions leads to lane departure |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
Roadway Design |
Curves, narrow lanes, or poor visibility contribute to errors |
Federal Highway Administration |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 39,345 traffic fatalities nationwide in 2024, underscoring the persistent risks on U.S. roadways.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, independent analysis plays a crucial role in uncovering facts and supporting affected parties.
“Head-on crashes demand thorough scrutiny beyond initial police reports. An attorney can re-examine witnesses, review surveillance footage, and secure critical records like phone data to establish accountability,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline.
Key takeaways from legal perspectives on such incidents:
- Independent Investigation Essential: Seasoned investigators help identify overlooked details that law enforcement might miss.
- Victim Advocacy: Legal guidance provides compassionate support while safeguarding rights during recovery.
- Insurance Navigation: Professionals counter lowball settlement offers to secure fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain.
“Serious injuries from collisions can upend lives, affecting work, family, and finances. Hiring representation ensures insurers treat victims equitably rather than pressuring for hasty, undervalued resolutions,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline.
Pending investigation outcomes, individuals like Caleb Saenz may explore options for personal injury claims to address long-term impacts.
Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence.
For transparency, view our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any submitted concerns.
Explore more on our Editorial Process and Editorial Policy.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).