Two Killed, One Critically Injured in Multi-Vehicle Head-On Crash at Kramer Junction
KRAMER JUNCTION, Calif. — A devastating multi-vehicle collision claimed two lives and left another person critically injured Saturday afternoon on U.S. Highway 395, just south of Highway 58 in the Kramer Junction area of the Mojave Desert.
The crash was reported at approximately 3:15 p.m. on August 30, 2025, near U.S. 395 and Alcudia Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Initial reports described the crash as a head-on collision. CHP logs indicate that four vehicles were ultimately involved, with one overturning and coming to rest on its side. One of the vehicles has been identified as a four-door Kia Niro.
Emergency crews from the San Bernardino County Fire Department responded quickly and confirmed that two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Another individual sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center by Mercy Air after being stabilized at the site.
At least one lane of northbound Highway 395 was closed as firefighters, paramedics, and CHP officers worked to treat victims, clear the wreckage, and begin an investigation. Traffic backups stretched for miles in both directions during the busy holiday weekend travel period.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Coroner Division was requested to the scene to handle the deceased. Officials said the identities of the victims will be released once family members have been notified.
Kramer Junction — often referred to simply as Kramer — is a small unincorporated community but serves as a heavily traveled crossroads in the Mojave Desert, connecting U.S. Highway 395 with State Route 58. The intersection is a frequent site of high-speed collisions due to heavy truck traffic, long-distance travelers, and limited alternative routes.
Authorities have not determined the cause of Saturday’s crash, and it remains under investigation by the CHP. Investigators will review evidence from the crash site and speak with witnesses to determine what led to the fatal collision.
For now, the tragedy has left two families grieving and another praying for the recovery of a loved one critically injured in the violent crash.