According to the California Highway Patrol, Richard Smith, 59 of Corning, was driving southbound on County Road 99W when the driver of a semi-truck traveling northbound attempted to make a westbound turn onto County Road 7. The semi-truck struck Smith’s car, forcing it into a power pole. Sadly, this crash killed Smith.

Vehicle Accident Attorney on the Orland Fatality 

Accident Lawyer Don Murphy responded to news of the crash saying, “It’s an unfathomable tragedy when a deadly crash occurs. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the persons and families involved and may the family members have the love and support of those around you help give you strength and peace in the days ahead.”   

Murphy notes, there may be civil claims / causes of action brought against the vehicle operator and any other responsible parties involved. The important purpose is to bring justice and fair compensation to those who now are dealing with challenging injuries and heartbreaking loss of loved ones.

At Murphy & Pressentin, our hearts go out to the victims and families of this devastating tragedy.

Fiery Crash Between Caltrain and Vehicle in San Bruno:

On March 10, a Caltrain crashed into a vehicle, causing a fire and injuring 13 people in San Bruno.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board were investigating the scene near Scott Street and the cause of this crash. Investigators in helmets and safety apparel could be seen scouring the train cars, taking measurements at the point of impact , and inspecting the engine.

Caltrain was continuing to run a modified schedule following the collision. Once NTSB releases the site, work will begin to remove the train and repair the track.

Caltrain Spokesman, Dan Lieberman, said, “My understanding is that the train is not going to be able to move until that track is repaired, until the investigation is complete. It’s difficult to know the full extent of that.

The train struck a vehicle that was part of Caltrains track electrification work. Caltrain said that the project, which will allow it to convert from diesel fueled trains to electric ones, has been paused while safety protocols are reviewed.

There were about 75 passengers on the train at the time of the crash. Two agency workers and 11 passengers were injured. Fortunately, none of them are said to have suffered life-threatening injuries.  However, Phil Merlino, a more than 25 year journeyman lineman, who was working on the Electrification Project at the time of this crash, was seriously injured. Merlino jumped from a crane at the moment of impact, he suffered 3rd degree burns from the initial explosion on the back of his hands, head, and neck. Merlino was treated in the Burn Center for his injuries. 

Caltrain is running a modified schedule. Passengers should expect delays through the area and can find more details about the modified schedule on the Caltrain website.