The deadly crash occurred on westbound State Route 78 west of Mastros Trailer Park Rd at approximately 2:49 p.m. on April 4, 2026.
Julian, CA – Two people were killed, and at least two others were injured after a two-vehicle collision on State Route 78 in Julian Saturday afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner has identified one of the deceased victims as 66-year-old Jesus Canales Lopez.
The deadly crash occurred on westbound State Route 78 west of Mastros Trailer Park Rd at approximately 2:49 p.m. on April 4, 2026.
According to the San Diego Police Department, a pickup truck operated by Jesus Lopez collided head-on with another pickup truck. The impact caused both vehicles to overturn multiple times along the roadway.
Lopez was pronounced dead at the scene by responding fire personnel. A second person was also killed in the crash. The identity of the second victim has not been released. At least two other individuals sustained injuries and were airlifted to area hospitals for treatment. No information regarding arrests was immediately available.
Emergency crews, including law enforcement and fire personnel, responded to the scene after a 911 call reporting the incident.
The crash prompted the closure of State Route 78 in both directions between Scissor Crossing and Banner Ranch for approximately five to six hours, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area.
The incident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.