CONCORD, CA — A tragic two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Kirker Pass Road and Hess Road claimed the life of an adult female driver Tuesday evening, while leaving a 14-year-old passenger with major injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The Incident
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 5:24 p.m. on May 20th, 2025, at the northernmost intersection of northbound Kirker Pass Road and Hess Road in Concord, according to officers from the California Highway Patrol’s Contra Costa Area office who responded to the scene.
According to the CHP investigation, a Ford Fusion stopped at the westbound Hess Road intersection attempted to make a left turn onto southbound Kirker Pass Road. While turning, it pulled into the path of a Toyota Sienna traveling northbound on Kirker Pass Road, resulting in the Toyota crashing into the Ford’s driver side.
Victims and Injuries
The Ford Fusion was occupied by an adult female driver and a 14-year-old male passenger in the front right seat. The Toyota Sienna was solely occupied by an adult female driver.
Tragically, the driver of the Ford sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 14-year-old passenger sustained suspected major injuries and was airlifted to the hospital. The driver of the Toyota sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital by ambulance.
Both the 14-year-old and Toyota driver are expected to recover from their injuries, according to CHP officials.
Investigation Details
An impaired driving investigation was conducted at the scene, and DUI was ruled out as a factor in this crash, authorities confirmed.
Both northbound and southbound lanes of Kirker Pass Road were closed at approximately 5:35 p.m. for the on-scene investigation and were reopened at approximately 8:40 p.m., causing significant traffic delays during the evening commute.
The crash remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
A Dangerous Intersection
The Kirker Pass Road and Hess Road intersection has been the site of previous serious accidents. Just two months ago in March 2025, a wrong-way collision at the same location resulted in fatal injuries to both drivers when a Honda Civic traveling northbound in the southbound lanes crashed head-on into a Toyota 4Runner.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the California Highway Patrol reminds drivers to exercise extreme caution when making left turns across traffic, ensuring there is adequate time and space before proceeding. The CHP states their mission is “to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.”
Anyone who may have witnessed the Tuesday evening collision or has information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol’s Contra Costa Area office.
