East County News Service
May 4, 2026 (Jacumba) — A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed the lives of two Texas men over the weekend after their vehicle overturned on Interstate 8 in the high desert, authorities said.
The collision occurred at approximately 7:35 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, just west of Carrizo Gorge Road. According to the California Highway Patrol, a 20-year-old man from Edinburg, Texas, was behind the wheel of a eastbound 2024 GMC Sierra traveling at approximately 70 mph when the incident began.
Preliminary investigations suggest the driver fell asleep at the wheel, causing the pickup truck to veer off the roadway. The vehicle struck the center median and a dirt embankment before overturning multiple times.
The driver, who was wearing a seatbelt, survived the crash. However, his two passengers — a 26-year-old male and a 25-year-old male, both from Alamo, Texas — were not buckled in. Both passengers died from their injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
“Fatigue behind the wheel significantly impairs judgment and reaction time,” said CHP Captain Michael Monteagudo. “If you’re feeling drowsy, pull over and rest. Seatbelts are critical for every occupant, every trip. Stay rested, buckle up, and arrive safely.”
The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of their families. While investigators have identified fatigue as a primary factor, it remains unknown if drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.