One killed in double big rig crash in Santa Clara County

Authorities say alcohol and drugs are not suspected as factors in early morning collision

GILROY – A 49-year-old San Juan Bautista man was killed early Tuesday morning when his big rig crashed into another big rig on Highway 25 near Gilroy, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The collision was reported about 7:30 a.m. north of Bolsa Road, according to the CHP.

The CHP said a 2002 Freightliner traveling southbound could not stop in time to avoid hitting a 2008 Kenworth making a left turn onto the two-lane highway from a private driveway.

The driver of the Freightliner suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the CHP. The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office will release the man’s identity once it has been confirmed and his next of kin is notified.

The CHP said the Kenworth overturned and came to a rest blocking both directions of the highway. The driver, identified only as a 49-year-old San Jose man, suffered minor injuries.

Alcohol and drugs are not suspected as factors in the collision at this time, according to the CHP.

The highway, a vital link for thousands of commuters, was closed several hours as a result of the crash.

Check back for updates.