NEVADA COUNTY, Calif. — June 28, 2025 — A devastating head-on collision along State Route 20 has claimed the life of a 23-year-old man from Rough and Ready, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit Nevada County community.
The fatal crash occurred Friday afternoon, June 27, around 3:28 p.m. just west of Rex Reservoir Road. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a man from Penn Valley was traveling eastbound on SR-20 when it veered off the right shoulder and struck a guardrail.
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Following the initial impact, the Jeep crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a 2004 Toyota Scion traveling westbound. The Toyota was driven by a 23-year-old Rough and Ready resident, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Emergency crews arrived quickly and airlifted the young driver to Sutter Roseville Medical Center in critical condition. Despite emergency life-saving efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The driver and passengers in the Jeep Grand Cherokee sustained moderate injuries and were transported to Rideout Memorial Hospital in Marysville.
As investigators work to determine what caused the Jeep to lose control, the community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a young man described by friends as kindhearted, driven, and full of promise.
“He had so much ahead of him,” a friend shared. “This is absolutely devastating for everyone who knew him.”
Spontaneous memorials have appeared at the crash site and online, as friends and family flood social media with photos and memories. A candlelight vigil is being planned in Rough and Ready in the coming days.
The CHP – Grass Valley Division is leading the investigation and is exploring whether speed, distraction, fatigue, or mechanical failure contributed to the crash. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage to contact them.
This fatal collision serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist on the road — particularly on highways like SR-20, which, while scenic, can be hazardous.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the young man lost in this tragedy,” said a CHP spokesperson. “Our investigators are working diligently to determine what happened and help bring closure to those affected.”
The name of the victim will be released by the Nevada County Coroner’s Office once all family notifications have been made.