Woman killed as failed U-turn leads to crash on Highway 145 north of Fresno

California Highway Patrol is reminding drivers of the danger in making U-turns following a crash on Highway 145 on Sunday.

Three people were hospitalized in the crash, which happened near Highway 41 in Madera.

One person died the following day, the CHP confirmed in a release Monday night.

The 77-year-old woman, who has yet to be identified, was the passenger in a car that was struck as another driver attempted to make a U-tune across Highway 145. That driver failed to see the oncoming vehicle and turned directly into its path, CHP said. Both cars sustained major damage, and “all parties involved were transported to local hospitals.”

Drugs or alcohol are not suspected to be a factor in the collision, though it remains under investigation.

“Making a U-turn may seem convenient, but doing so illegally or without enough space can lead to serious crashes and injuries,” the CHP said. “Always obey posted signs, check for oncoming traffic, and ensure it is safe and legal before turning.

“When in doubt, don’t make the U-turn.”

A series of fatal crashes in Madera

This was one of two fatal collisions reported out of the Madera area on Sunday, and one in a series of crashes in recent weeks.

Also on Sunday, the driver of a Ford Mustang was reportedly speeding on Highway 41 just north of Yosemite Springs Parkway where the car struck a rock in the road, according to CHP. The driver lost control and rolled the vehicle several times.

On New Year’s Eve, two people, including a 21-year-old woman, were killed in a crash on Avenue 13.

And on Christmas Eve, a 27-year-old Modesto man was killed after crashing into another vehicle, veering off the road and striking a power pole on Avenue 7 1⁄2 east of Road 9.

This story was originally published January 6, 2026 at 9:41 AM.