Lake Isabella man dies after crash on Hwy 178 near Democrat Rd sparks fire

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Firefighters are working to contain a fire burning along Highway 178 that has forced a closure of the canyon Wednesday afternoon.

According to the California Highway Patrol, a Lake Isabella man behind the wheel of a Chevrolet was traveling eastbound on Highway 178 when, for reasons still under investigation, lost control of the vehicle.

The Chevrolet went off the north side of the road and down an embankment, overturned and caught fire just before 1 p.m. The 46-year-old man was ejected during the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seatbelt during the crash.

Kern County coroner’s office will release the man’s identity at a later date.

Flames sparked by the crash spread to the hillside and moving in a westerly direction, according to reports on CHP’s page.

Caltrans said traffic is closed at the canyon from Kern Canyon Road in Bakersfield to Democrat Springs. Drivers are asked to use an alternate route.

Fire officials say the fire has burned 1,681 acres and is called the Borel Fire.

Any witnesses with information on the crash are urged to call CHP at 661-396-6600.

Check back for updates.

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