Serenity Bloom hurt in head-on crash on State Route 108/120

Vehicle struck oncoming car after driver crossed centre line near Kennedy Road

February 19, 2026 | Oakdale, CA

Oakdale authorities reported a tragic head-on collision that claimed one life and left four people with serious injuries. 

The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the factors behind the accident.

Serenity Bloom, 24, 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 collision unfolded on State Route 108/120 east of Oakdale, just west of Kennedy Road. 

Key details include:

• Time of Incident: Around 2:56 p.m. on a Thursday.
• Vehicles Involved: A gray Subaru sedan traveling westbound crossed the center line and collided head-on with an eastbound 2019 Tesla sedan.
• Fatalities: The Subaru driver, an Oakdale woman, was declared dead at the scene.
• Injuries: Four occupants of the Tesla suffered major injuries and were rushed to Oak Valley Medical Center. One injured passenger is 24-year-old Serenity Bloom from Manteca.
• Investigation Status: Officials have not confirmed if drugs or alcohol played a role, and the case remains under active review by the CHP.

Why Do Head-On Crashes Occur and What Are the Risks?

Head-on collisions, though less common than other accidents, pose severe dangers due to the direct crash forces. These incidents often result in high rates of fatalities and life-altering injuries.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic crashes led to 39,345 deaths in 2024, with head-on types contributing disproportionately to the toll.

Factors like veering across lanes, as seen here, highlight the need for vigilant driving on rural routes like State Route 108/120.

Legal Insights on Head-On Crash Investigations

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, thorough investigations are crucial to uncover causes and assign liability. Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, stresses the value of independent reviews.

“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,” said Bond.

Key takeaways from legal analysis:

• Independent investigations complement official efforts by securing evidence like witness statements and digital records.
• Legal representation helps protect victims' rights during recovery.
• Prompt action preserves critical details that could influence outcomes.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, addresses the challenges for those pursuing personal injury claims post-accident.

“It is vital for victims to hire an attorney when filing a personal injury claim, which allows them to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a client,” Formica noted. “Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

• Compensation Focus: Claims can cover medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
• Insurance Tactics: Companies may undervalue settlements, and professional negotiation secures fair amounts.
• Victim Support: Attorneys provide guidance amid the disruptions to daily life.

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.

(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.