Bakersfield, CA – Child Dies Following Multi-Vehicle Crash at Cottonwood Rd & E Panama Ln

Bakersfield, CA (October 01, 2025) – The Bakersfield Police Department reported that on Sunday, September 28, at approximately 7:41 a.m., officers responded to the intersection of Cottonwood Road and East Panama Lane regarding a serious multi-vehicle collision.

When officers arrived, they found the crash site in the 2600 block of East Panama Lane. A preliminary investigation indicated that a black sedan and a white SUV were traveling westbound when the sedan allegedly rear-ended the SUV at high speed. The impact caused the SUV to overturn, while the sedan left the roadway and crashed into a nearby vineyard.

Emergency responders reported that the SUV driver, an adult woman, and an infant passenger sustained minor to moderate injuries. A six-year-old child inside the SUV suffered major injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Due to the severity of the injuries, the child was later transferred to Orange County Children’s Hospital for advanced care, but tragically passed away on Monday morning.

Police identified the sedan driver as 20-year-old Cesar Magana. Officials stated that Magana exhibited signs of impairment and was taken into custody without incident. After medical clearance, he was booked, and charges were amended to include gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the child who lost their life in this tragic accident. We also hope for the full recovery of the surviving victims.

Fatal Traffic Collisions in Bakersfield

Fatal traffic accidents remain a significant concern in Bakersfield and throughout Kern County. High-traffic areas such as Cottonwood Road and East Panama Lane are particularly prone to collisions due to the volume of vehicles passing through these intersections daily. Factors such as speeding, distracted driving, and impairment increase the risks of severe or fatal outcomes.

Accidents involving children are especially devastating, as young passengers are more vulnerable to life-threatening injuries even when safety restraints are properly used. Rollover collisions, like the one reported here, often result in severe trauma, including head injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal harm. These injuries may require prolonged hospitalization, rehabilitation, and in some cases, prove fatal.

Families affected by fatal collisions often face not only emotional grief but also significant financial burdens. Funeral expenses, ongoing medical costs for surviving victims, and the long-term impact of losing a loved one can place families under immense strain. Thorough investigations are essential to determine liability and ensure responsible parties are held accountable.

Legal options may be available to victims and their families following such incidents. Compensation can cover medical costs, lost wages, rehabilitation, and damages resulting from wrongful death. Securing experienced legal representation can help ensure victims’ rights are protected and fair treatment is obtained through insurance and legal processes.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, our attorneys are dedicated to assisting individuals injured in traffic collisions across Lake Forest and the surrounding areas of Orange County. Our wrongful death lawyers handle complex cases, provide comprehensive legal support, and advocate for the justice and compensation our clients deserve.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a traffic accident, contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today at (844)-844-9119 or visit us online to schedule a free consultation. Our team is committed to providing skilled advocacy and support during this challenging time.