Westbound 60 Freeway at Mountain and Central Avenues: a motorcyclist and a driver died in two crashes about a mile apart

CHINO, CALIFORNIA (September 21, 2026): Two people were killed in separate crashes on the same stretch of the westbound 60 Freeway in Chino during the Monday morning commute, according to the California Highway Patrol incident log as reported by KTLA and to the San Bernardino County Coroner. The first 60 Freeway crash killed a 21-year-old Hesperia man riding a motorcycle. In the second, a semi-truck collided with a Lexus, and one of the drivers later died at a hospital.

The first crash was reported at about 5:55 a.m. on the westbound 60 near the Mountain Avenue exit. According to the CHP log, the motorcyclist ended up in the freeway lanes. The coroner said the rider was pronounced dead at the scene and that his name is being withheld pending positive identification. Three lanes were closed near Mountain Avenue during the investigation.

About 40 minutes later, at roughly 6:36 a.m., a second crash was reported on the westbound 60 west of Central Avenue, the next exit. The CHP log states that the semi-truck "drove up the embankment" and collided with the Lexus. KTLA, citing Sky5 reporter Rich Prickett, reported that one of the drivers was taken to a hospital and died, and it was not immediately clear which vehicle that driver was in. The westbound on-ramp from Central Avenue was closed, and traffic backed up for miles toward the 15 Freeway.

The CHP has not released the second victim's name or the cause of either crash. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol.

Liability for Chino 60 Freeway Crashes

Under California Civil Code § 1714, every driver is generally responsible for harm caused by a failure to use ordinary care, and Vehicle Code § 22350 requires speeds that are safe for traffic and road conditions. When a commercial truck is involved, the trucking company can also be responsible for its driver under the doctrine of respondeat superior, and interstate carriers must follow federal hours-of-service and maintenance rules. Our truck accident attorneys know that in crashes like these, investigators typically look at:

  • Why the semi left the lanes: The CHP log indicates the truck went up the embankment before striking the Lexus. Steering, braking, speed and any evasive maneuver will be examined.
  • Driver hours and fatigue: The crash happened at about 6:36 a.m. Electronic logging device records can show how long the truck driver had been on duty.
  • Truck maintenance: Inspection and repair records for brakes, tires and steering can reveal whether a mechanical problem played a role.
  • The motorcycle crash sequence: Near Mountain Avenue, investigators will determine how the rider ended up in the lanes and whether another vehicle contributed.

California follows comparative fault, so responsibility can be shared among several drivers or companies. Surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, separate from any criminal case.

Steps to Take After a 60 Freeway Truck or Motorcycle Crash

Large trucks and motorcycles are both overrepresented in traffic deaths. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are far more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled, and most people killed in large truck crashes are occupants of the other vehicles.

  • Get the CHP report: Request the Traffic Collision Report from the investigating CHP office once it is complete, along with any supplemental reports.
  • Preserve truck data: Send a written preservation request to the trucking company for electronic logs, dashcam and engine data before they are overwritten.
  • Collect video: Caltrans cameras, news helicopter footage and nearby businesses may show the traffic conditions that morning.
  • Be careful with insurers: Report the loss to your own insurer, but be cautious about recorded statements to the trucking company's insurer before you understand your rights.

Most personal injury and wrongful death claims in California must be filed within two years under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If a public entity is involved, such as for a roadway defect, a government claim generally must be filed within six months under Government Code § 911.2. Contact an attorney promptly to protect your rights.

Investigating the Chino 60 Freeway Crashes

We at Carrazco Law, A.P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the families of the two people who lost their lives. Key questions remain: What caused the semi-truck to leave the lanes and climb the embankment before striking the Lexus? And did slowing traffic and lane closures from the first crash near Mountain Avenue play any role in the second collision less than an hour later?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck, motorcycle or pedestrian accident anywhere in California, our personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Call us anytime at (800) 541-3244. Se Habla Español. Free consultation.