Rollover Crash on SR-120 Kills One, Injures Two

Fatal Rollover on SR‑120 Near Menke Ness Road Leaves One Dead, Two Injured in Tuolumne County

Overview

An 82-year-old woman from Beijing, China, was tragically killed and two others were injured in a rollover crash east of Sonora on Sunday, October 12, 2025. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the collision occurred around 10:00 a.m. on State Route 120 near Menke Ness Road in Tuolumne County. The crash involved a 2025 Jeep Compass traveling eastbound behind a Caltrans vehicle. Investigators report that the Jeep began a passing maneuver just as the Caltrans vehicle initiated a left turn, leading to a violent off-road excursion and rollover.

What Investigators Have Reported So Far

- Time and location: Approximately 10:00 a.m., Sunday, October 12, 2025, on SR‑120 near Menke Ness Road, east of Sonora.
- Vehicles and parties: A 51-year-old man from Beijing was driving a 2025 Jeep Compass eastbound with two passengers: a 52-year-old woman in the front seat and an 82-year-old woman in the rear seat. A Caltrans vehicle was being driven by Jesse Warren, 33.
- Sequence of events: The roadway segment featured a broken yellow centerline allowing passing in the eastbound direction. As the Jeep reportedly moved into the westbound lane to pass the Caltrans vehicle, the Caltrans driver began a left turn into a state-owned driveway. The Jeep driver apparently swerved left to avoid contact, left the roadway on the north side, struck an embankment, and overturned onto its roof.
- Injuries: All three Jeep occupants were wearing seat belts. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to Adventist Health Sonora. The front-seat passenger suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. The 82-year-old rear passenger died at the scene.
- Investigation status: CHP reports that alcohol and drugs do not appear to be factors. Traffic control was in place for several hours while the scene was documented and the vehicle recovered. The collision remains under investigation, and witnesses are encouraged to contact the CHP Sonora Area Office.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a deadly rollover accident, Avian Law Group is here to help. Our experienced wrongful death lawyers understand how painful and overwhelming these situations can be. We’ll investigate the cause of the rollover, identify liable parties, and fight tirelessly for justice and fair compensation. Contact Avian Law Group today for a free consultation with a compassionate and skilled wrongful death attorney dedicated to protecting your family’s rights.