Four killed in fiery crash east of Riverbank

Two others expected to survive after solo-vehicle incident on Oakdale-Waterford Highway

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Four people were killed in a fiery solo-vehicle crash early Sunday morning east of Riverbank, California. Two others were able to get out of the vehicle and were taken to a local hospital before being flown out for further treatment. They are expected to survive, according to officials.

Why it matters

Fatal car crashes are a major public safety concern, especially in rural areas where response times can be longer. This incident highlights the need for continued efforts to improve road safety and emergency response in the region.

The details

The crash happened shortly after 3 a.m. on the Oakdale-Waterford Highway south of Claribel Road. Emergency crews found four people trapped in the burning vehicle, all of whom were declared dead at the scene. The two survivors were able to get out of the car and were transported to a local hospital before being flown out for further treatment.

  • The crash occurred early Sunday morning, around 3:15 a.m.

The players

Modesto Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the incident and provided an initial incident summary.

California Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency handling the investigation into the fatal crash.

Jim Black

A battalion chief with the Modesto Fire Department who spoke to local media about the two survivors expected to live.

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What they’re saying

“The two are expected to survive”

— Jim Black, Battalion Chief, Modesto Fire Department (The Bee)

What’s next

The California Highway Patrol will continue its investigation into the cause of the fatal crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of road safety, especially in rural areas where emergency response times can be longer. Authorities will work to determine the cause of the crash and identify any measures that could help prevent similar accidents in the future.