Massive Highway 99 Pileup in Dense Fog Leaves 1 Dead, 20+ Injured — What You Need to Know

On Sunday morning, January 11, 2026, a devastating multi-vehicle collision occurred on southbound State Route 99 near Fresno, California, resulting in at least one fatality and more than 20 injuries. 

What Happened?

• Date & Time: Sunday, January 11, 2026, at approximately 9:15 a.m.
• Location: Southbound State Route 99 (Highway 99), between North Avenue and Cedar Avenue, Fresno County. 
• Vehicles Involved: 17 vehicles — including passenger cars and at least one big rig — were involved in the chain-reaction crash. 
• Cause: Dense fog reduced visibility to roughly 10 to 15 feet, making road conditions extremely dangerous and contributing to multiple collisions in quick succession. 

According to officials, two separate collisions happened within moments of each other, triggering the larger pileup. After the initial crash, a couple got out of their vehicle and were then struck by another approaching car. The 61-year-old man was killed at the scene, while the woman suffered major injuries after falling down an embankment. 

Emergency Response and Aftermath

First responders — including the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Fresno Fire Department, and medical teams — quickly arrived on scene to extricate victims, provide medical care, and transport the injured to local hospitals. 

Highway 99 was closed for hours as authorities worked to clear wreckage and investigate the incident. CHP is continuing its investigation and has emphasized the importance of driving appropriate for weather conditions. 

Why This Crash Matters

This tragic collision highlights how sudden changes in visibility — especially tule fog and dense atmospheric conditions common in Central California winters — can turn routine drives into life-altering events. Poor visibility often contributes to “chain-reaction” crashes where drivers have little time to react to slowing or stopped traffic ahead. 

How NRC Law Helps Victims of Serious Traffic Accidents

When a major collision like this happens, the consequences for victims and their families can be overwhelming:

• Physical Injuries: From minor cuts and bruises to life-altering trauma.
• Emotional Toll: The impact of sudden loss or serious injury can be long-lasting.
• Financial Strain: Hospital bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing care create burdens that many families struggle to manage.

At Nelson, Rozier, and Christenson, Attorneys at Law, we understand how confusing and stressful the aftermath of a severe accident can be. Our experienced team is committed to:

✔ Investigating the Full Scope of Your Crash

We help reconstruct what happened, work with experts when needed, and build a factual picture of the collision to determine liability and insurance responsibilities.

✔ Advocating for Fair Compensation

Our attorneys pursue forms of compensation that accident victims may be entitled to, including:

• Medical expenses and ongoing care costs
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Wrongful death claims, when applicable

✔ Guiding You Through the Legal Process

From filing claims to negotiating with insurers and (if necessary) representing you in court, we are by your side every step of the way. You shouldn’t have to navigate this process alone.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery — Contact NRC Law Today

If you or a loved one were injured — or worse, lost someone you care about — in this tragic Highway 99 pileup or any serious auto collision, you deserve an advocate who will fight for your rights.

📞 Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. 559-713-0159

Let our experienced attorneys help you understand your options and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Your recovery starts with a call.