Tractor-trailer struck vehicle near Rex Reservoir Road
November 26, 2025 | Penn Valley, CA
Two men lost their lives in a devastating semi-truck accident on Highway 20 in Penn Valley, California.
The incident, which occurred near Rex Reservoir Road, has left the community in mourning as investigations continue.
Jonathan Nemedez, 39, of Sparks, Nevada, and Walker Price, 30, of Penn Valley died in a semi-truck crash on Highway 20 near Rex Reservoir Road.
What Happened in the Crash?
The Nevada County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the collision involved a semi-truck and resulted in the deaths of Jonathan Nemedez, 39, from Sparks, Nevada, and Walker Price, 30, from Penn Valley. Authorities responded to the scene on Nov. 26, but additional details about the circumstances leading to the crash remain under review.
- Date of Incident: Nov. 26, 2026
- Location: Highway 20 near Rex Reservoir Road, Penn Valley, CA
- Vehicles Involved: Semi-truck, tractor-trailer
- Victims: Jonathan Nemedez, 39, Sparks, NV, and Walker Price, 30, Penn Valley, CA
- Outcome: Fatalities, and no other injuries reported at this time
- Investigating Agency: Nevada County Sheriff's Office
Why Do Semi-Truck Accidents Happen?
Semi-truck crashes often stem from a combination of factors, including driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and challenging road conditions. According to the Federal Highway Administration, large trucks were involved in over 4,800 fatal crashes in the U.S. in recent years, highlighting the severity of such incidents.
Factor |
Description |
Source |
|---|
Driver Error |
Fatigue or distraction accounts for nearly 30% of incidents |
Federal Highway Administration |
Vehicle Issues |
Brake failures or overloading contribute to 20% of crashes |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
Road Conditions |
Wet or icy roads increase risk by up to 50% |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
Speeding |
Exceeding limits in heavy vehicles leads to catastrophic outcomes |
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration |
Legal Insights on Semi-Truck Crashes
Newsline's national legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on handling cases involving commercial vehicle accidents. Their experience helps families navigate complex investigations and potential claims.
"In cases such as this, tractor-trailer accidents demand thorough examinations of multiple elements, from the scene to company records," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "Protecting families requires advocating against well-resourced trucking entities by securing evidence and experience testimony."
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Investigations should include scene analysis, logbook reviews, and driver background checks.
- Trucking companies often deploy their own teams quickly, so prompt legal action preserves critical evidence.
- Families may pursue compensation for losses, guided by professionals familiar with industry regulations.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, emphasized the emotional toll:
"Relatives of those affected by catastrophic crashes deserve support to claim damages for companionship loss and distress. Staying informed on official investigation ensures their rights are upheld."
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Families of individuals involved in fatal accidents like this may explore wrongful death options to address losses. Such claims can cover emotional suffering, financial consequences, and other hardships, as outlined under California law.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has experience in commercial trucking accident cases. Contact her for a free consultation if you need legal support.
(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).