Bakersfield, CA – Fatal Crash on I-5 Claims Woman’s Life and Sends Baby to Hospital

Bakersfield, CA (July 6, 2023) – A tragic three-vehicle accident on Interstate 5 resulted in the death of a woman and the hospitalization of a baby in Bakersfield on Thursday, July 6th.

The collision occurred when Thomas Hale, a 29-year-old man from Bakersfield, crashed into the back of a car while traveling north of Twisselman Road. The car was being driven by Tuna Taleni, 48, who was towing a Nissan Pathfinder at a speed of 30 mph, while Hale was traveling at 60 mph.

As a result of the impact, the Nissan Pathfinder, which carried a 45-year-old woman from Twentynine Palms and a 1-year-old girl, veered to the right and flipped over, ultimately colliding with a dirt embankment. The woman was not wearing a seatbelt, and the baby was not secured in a car seat, according to CHP. However, a third passenger in the Nissan emerged from the incident unharmed, as reported in a news release.

CHP further indicated that Hale’s vehicle moved forward and collided with the truck Taleni was driving. Alcohol and drugs were ruled out as factors contributing to the crash.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding this devastating crash are still ongoing.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic event, and we sincerely hope for the baby’s swift recovery.