Jonathan Emman Parra Gordillo Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal head-on collision on Highway 43 near Delano. The Kern County Coroner’s Office confirmed that 36-year-old Jonathan Emman Parra Gordillo of Shafter lost his life in the crash, which occurred late on the night of February 1, 2025.
Crash Details
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the collision happened around 10:56 p.m. on Saturday. Officers responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 43, just north of Cecil Way.
Preliminary findings indicate that a Tesla Model 3 was traveling southbound on Highway 43 at an undetermined speed. At the same time, a Nissan Sentra, driven by Gordillo, was heading north on the same highway.
As the two vehicles approached each other, the Nissan Sentra veered left, crossing into the opposite lane and directly into the path of the Tesla Model 3. The driver of the Tesla was unable to react in time to avoid the collision, resulting in a violent head-on impact.
Fatal Outcome
Gordillo, the driver of the Nissan Sentra, suffered fatal injuries in the crash. Authorities reported that his vehicle caught fire upon impact, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Tesla Model 3 sustained severe injuries and was rushed to Kern Medical for treatment. A GoFundMe campaign identified him as Correctional Officer A. Ortiz, though his full name has not been disclosed.
Investigation Underway
The CHP has not yet determined whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances leading to the collision.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of veering out of lanes on high-speed roadways. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and drive cautiously to prevent such devastating accidents.