Jake Henry, Ryan Wiley die in head-on crash on Highway 299

Westbound Jeep crossed into oncoming lane and struck Chevrolet Impala near Del Loma

January 24, 2026 | Del Loma, CA

Services are pending for victims of a tragic head-on crash that claimed multiple lives near Del Loma. 

The incident involved a Jeep Grand Cherokee crossing into oncoming traffic, resulting in a collision with a Chevrolet Impala.

Jake Henry, 18, and Ryan Nicole Wiley, 21, died in a head-on crash involving a Jeep Grand Cherokee and a Chevrolet Impala on State Route 299 near Del Loma in Trinity County.

What Happened in the Crash?

Authorities report that the accident occurred just before 7 p.m. on State Route 299 west of Big Bar in Trinity County. Key details include:

• Vehicles Involved: Westbound Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Jose Adelaido Jimenez Garcia, 40, of Chicago, and eastbound Chevrolet Impala.
• Victims: Passengers Jake Henry, 18, and Ryan Nicole Wiley, 21, were among four people killed in the crash.
• Suspect Charges: Garcia faces nine felony counts, including four counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
• Location: Near Del Loma, California, on a winding section of the highway.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is leading the ongoing investigation into the factors contributing to the collision.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes on U.S. roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired drivers contribute to thousands of deaths annually. Other potential factors in this case may include road conditions and vehicle speeds, pending further analysis.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on handling cases involving impaired driving and fatal accidents. Their insights emphasize the importance of thorough investigations and civil remedies.

“Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide grieving families during this difficult time, protecting their legal rights while ensuring that drunk drivers are held accountable for their reckless actions.” In cases such as this.

Key takeaways from analyst discussions on motor vehicle crashes:

• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for expenses like medical bills, funerals, and emotional losses.
• Independent investigations can uncover additional evidence, such as blood-alcohol levels.
• Civil actions hold negligent drivers accountable beyond criminal penalties.
• Legal support aids in navigating complex claims processes.

“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.” In cases such as this.

Pending investigation results, the families of Jake Henry and Ryan Nicole Wiley may explore options for compensation covering loss of companionship, pain, and suffering.

A GoFundMe has been established to support the Henry family: here.

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