There have been major multi-vehicle crashes on Fresno freeways for some time, but that changed Sunday when a 17-car pileup on Highway 99 between North Street and Cedar Avenue left one person dead and several others injured.
Dense fog reduced visibility to 15 feet, according to the California Highway Patrol. When two drivers slow down in this situation, it sets off a chain reaction that results in a pile-up. Highway 99 remains closed as of 7 p.m.
Although Highway 99 has a history of serious crashes, Sunday’s 17-car crash was not the highway’s worst accident.
In 2002, heavy fog near Fowler caused at least 90 vehicles to crash, killing three people and injuring many others.
In 2007, foggy conditions south of Fresno’s American Boulevard again caused an 86-car crash, killing two people and injuring 12 others.
The California Highway Patrol is urging extra caution as foggy conditions are expected to increase.
“Safety first,” said CHP spokesman Mike Salas. “We cannot stress this enough. Please slow down, especially in inclement weather – especially foggy weather. If you can postpone your trip, please do so. Tragedy can happen. Drive at safe speeds and wear your seat belts.”
The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued a heavy fog warning for much of the San Joaquin Valley, from Merced County to southern Kern County, starting at midnight and lasting until 11 a.m. Monday.
Drivers are reminded to stay alert, reduce speed and use extra caution when traveling in foggy conditions on Highway 99 and throughout the region.
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, a fog-related crash occurred on Highway 99 between North and Cedar in Fresno, California, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, a fog-related crash occurred on Highway 99 between North and Cedar in Fresno, California, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.