Truck driver killed in crash while working on disabled semi in Madera County, CHP says

A semi truck driver hauling vehicles was killed Thursday afternoon on Highway 99 in Madera County when he was struck by another semi.

California Highway Patrol Officer Sergio Moreno said the collision happened at 12:15 p.m. at Highway 99 between Avenues 9 and 12 when the semi was disabled on the right shoulder during heavy traffic.

Another semi carrying produce was traveling in the No. 2 lane, which was slow in heavy traffic. The driver then veered to the right and collided with the left rear of the trailer.

Moreno said it appears the driver was out working on his disabled semi when he was struck. The 51-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

It’s unknown if the victim was working on his semi at the rear of the trailer or lying underneath, Moreno said.

The other driver wasn’t injured, Moreno said.

Crews as of 2:30 p.m. were still working to remove both semis.