On Friday, June 19, 2026, at approximately 8:01 p.m., the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Merced Communications Center received reports of a two-vehicle traffic crash on State Route 41 (SR-41), north of State Route 145 (SR-145). Officers from the CHP Madera Area office responded to the scene.

A preliminary investigation indicates a 19-year-old man from Fresno was driving a 2011 Mercedes E350 northbound on SR-41, north of SR-145. An 86-year-old man from North Fork was riding a 2014 Harley-Davidson northbound on SR-41 behind the Mercedes.

The driver of the Mercedes pulled over to the right shoulder with the intent to make a U-turn and proceed southbound. The driver did not see the approaching Harley-Davidson as he attempted to make the U-turn, directly in the motorcycle’s path. As a result, the Harley-Davidson collided with the left side of the Mercedes.

The rider was ejected from the motorcycle following the impact. He was flown to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno with major injuries, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The driver of the Mercedes was wearing his seat belt, and the rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Alcohol and/or drugs are not suspected to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation. For further information, contact the CHP Madera Area Public Information Officer.

CHP reminds motorists that a U-turn may seem like a quick solution, but an unsafe or illegal U-turn can have devastating consequences. Drivers are urged to obey posted signs, carefully check for oncoming traffic, and make sure there is enough time and space to complete the turn safely. If there is any uncertainty about whether a U-turn is safe or legal, CHP advises motorists not to make the turn.