US, Bakersfield: Bakersfield 3 Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Highway 99.

Bakersfield, United States - August 16, 2026 08/16/2026 12:47 am GMT-0700 BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – Three people were killed in a multi-vehicle crash early this morning on southbound Highway 99, just north of Seventh Standard Road. The collision was reported just before 1 a.m. According to preliminary information from the California Highway Patrol, one vehicle was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Highway 99 at a high rate of speed before the crash. Initial reports indicated three vehicles were involved. One vehicle became fully engulfed in flames, while debris from the collision was scattered across all lanes of the freeway. According to preliminary information from the Kern County Fire Department, three people were found dead inside the burned vehicle. Two other people sustained minor injuries outside their vehicles. At least one person was pinned inside a vehicle and had to be extricated by emergency crews. Traffic was diverted from the Lerdo Highway off-ramp as crews worked the scene. Multiple tow trucks were requested, and additional personnel assisted with traffic control. The fatal crash investigation and cleanup remained underway around 2:30 a.m. as crews worked to reopen the roadway. The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation.