BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A mass-casualty/trauma crash involving 43 vehicles shut down all lanes of eastbound State Route 58 east of Tower Line Road Tuesday morning, with investigators citing extremely dense fog as a possible factor.

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According to the California Highway Patrol Bakersfield Area, calls came in at approximately 8:07 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, reporting a multi-vehicle collision blocking the entire eastbound roadway. CHP units responded alongside Kern County Fire, emergency medical services, and the CHP’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT).

^{Photo credit: California Highway Patrol}

Investigators said weather may have contributed to the pileup. Witnesses reported visibility as low as 50 to 60 feet due to heavy fog in the area.

CHP said Hall Ambulance transported nine people to local hospitals. Injuries ranged from minor to major, and no fatalities were reported.

^{Photo credit: California Highway Patrol}

Eastbound lanes of SR-58 remained closed into the late evening hours while authorities conducted the investigation and cleared the scene. CHP said the investigation remains ongoing and is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the CHP Bakersfield Area office.

^{Photo credit: California Highway Patrol}

CHP also issued a reminder for driving in fog:

• Slow down and increase following distance

• Use low-beam headlights

• Avoid sudden stops or lane changes

• Delay or postpone travel if possible