Bradley Montero, 60, of Chico, California, died early Monday morning, August 31, 2026, following a serious head-on collision on State Route 99 north of Chico.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 3:18 a.m. near Broyles Road, between the Nord and Vina areas. Montero was driving a 2019 Nissan Altima when, for reasons that remain under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center median and entered the opposing lanes.
The Nissan then collided head-on with a 2017 Kenworth truck tractor driven by 54-year-old Jose L. Estrada Loza of Anderson.
Emergency responders arriving at the scene found Montero trapped inside the Nissan. Firefighters worked to extricate him from the heavily damaged vehicle before he was transported to Enloe Medical Center for emergency treatment.
Despite the efforts of first responders and medical personnel, Montero was pronounced dead at approximately 4:57 a.m.
Estrada Loza was not seriously injured in the collision. Investigators are continuing to examine why Montero’s vehicle crossed the center median and entered the path of the approaching truck.
Authorities have indicated that alcohol and drugs do not appear to have contributed to the crash, although the investigation remains active. Investigators are working to establish the complete sequence of events leading up to the collision.
For Montero’s family and friends, the crash represents a sudden and painful loss. At 60 years old, his life came to an unexpected end on a Northern California highway, leaving loved ones to cope with the shock of his death.
Those who knew Montero are now remembering his life and the moments they shared with him while investigators continue their work. His passing has brought grief to those closest to him and to others who knew him in the Chico community.
The California Highway Patrol investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Condolences go out to Bradley Montero’s family, friends and everyone affected by his passing as they mourn his death and remember the life he lived.
