Driver Simon Gutierrez Castaneda Killed in Highway 120 Collision [Oakdale, CA]

Oakdale, CA (December 24, 2024) – Simon Gutierrez Castaneda, 64, of Oakdale, was killed in a Highway 120 collision Saturday morning.

The traffic collision happened around 11:52 a.m. west of Pioneer Avenue.

Investigators said Nicholas Anthony Martinez, 34, of Coulterville, was driving an eastbound 2007 GMC pickup truck when he veered into the westbound lane into the path of a 2014 Chevrolet pickup driven by Simon Gutierrez Castaneda. 

As a result, the two vehicles collided head-on and rested on the north shoulder of the road. 

Simon Gutierrez Castaneda was transported to Doctors Medical Center where he later succumbed to his injuries. His passenger, Eddie Cortes, 54, of Palmdale, was taken to Memorial Medical Center with major injuries.

Moreover, the authorities arrested Martinez on suspicion of driving under the influence and gross vehicular manslaughter. He was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center. 

Troopers closed Highway 120 while they investigated the scene. 

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We at Sweet Lawyers would like to send our condolences to the family and community of Simon Gutierrez Castaneda. May you find courage during this difficult time.

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