2 People Died in Stolen Vehicle Crash

A mother and daughter were killed on Wednesday afternoon in Olivehurst on Highway 70. 

The deadly collision took place on September 15th around 2:16 p.m. at Highway 70 and Highway 65. 

25-year-old Chase Hammonds was driving a stolen trailer truck during a pursuit with police around 2:08 p.m. While being chased by CHP, Hammonds reportedly crossed over from Highway 65 to Highway 70 and began driving the wrong way. As a result, Hammonds crashed head-on with a Dodge Durango.

Due to the impact, the Dodge overturned and caused both the driver and passenger to be trapped inside. The driver and mother, Deanna Hernandez, along with the passenger and daughter, Cary Ojeda, both sustained life-threatening injuries. 

Hernandez and Ojeda were rushed to a local hospital where they later died as a result of their injuries. 

The stolen trailer truck also hit a Chevy Silverado, however there were no injuries reported with that vehicle. 

Hammonds reportedly fled the scene but was chased and caught by police moments later. 

Chase Hammonds was taken into custody and has been arrested on two counts of murder. In addition, he faces multiple violations of parole since this wasn’t his first time driving a stolen vehicle. 

Hammonds also suffered minor injuries and was booked into jail following treatment.

JT Legal Group sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Deanna Hernandez and Cary Ojeda. 

If you or a loved one need legal help following an accident, contact JT Legal Group at (888) 529-3111.