Fatal collision kills 2 on Highway 99 near Goshen

Two people died following a fiery multiple vehicle crash southbound on Highway 99 in Goshen Tuesday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Four vehicles were involved in the accident, which happened before 6 a.m. as traffic began merging into one lane near a construction zone north of Betty Drive.

The driver of a big rig, traveling 55 mph, failed to stop or slow for the traffic in front of him. The semi struck the rear of a vehicle and caused a sequence of crashes into two more vehicles, including a box truck, the CHP said. The Freightliner was carrying pet food and burst into flames.

A 39-year-old woman from Parlier, driving a Chevrolet Tahoe, was killed in the crash. An 18-year-old male passenger of a Toyota Sienna, who was from Fresno, also died in the accident. The driver suffered moderate injuries.

CHP is investigating the crash. Alcohol and drugs were not a factor.

This story was originally published September 15, 2015 at 8:49 AM with the headline "Fatal collision kills 2 on Highway 99 near Goshen."