Fatal Collision

On Sunday July 25th, 2021 at about 0703 hours, Chico Police were dispatched to a vehicle collision and explosion at the bridge in the 300 block of Nord Avenue. This location is where Nord Ave. and Walnut Street (S/R 32) meet. When Officers and emergency personnel arrived on scene, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. Chico Fire Dept. quickly extinguished the fire. Inside the vehicle were the remains of a charred human. We were able to determine the driver was the only occupant inside the vehicle. Chico Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team took over the investigation. Based on video captured by local surveillance cameras, the vehicle appeared to be driving at 70-80 MPH and exploded on impact. The driver of the vehicle is unknown. We will not have a positive identity of the driver until we get a return on the DNA. This is an ongoing investigation and Chico Police is working closely with Butte County Sheriff’s Department in identifying the driver. A nearby PG&E power pole caught fire which caused a loss of power to the immediate area. PG&E arrived on scene and within 90 mins, had the power restored. The roadway was closed during the investigation for approximately 3 ½ hours.

Location: 300 block of Nord Avenue (S/R 32)
Victim: Unknown
Supervisor: Sgt. Todd Lefkowitz
Commander: Lt. Mike Rodden

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!