Knights Ferry, CA — At approximately 3:42 p.m. on April 14, 2026, the Modesto Fire Department and Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District were dispatched to a reported rescue incident near the intersection of Schell Road and Sonora Road, outside the community of Knights Ferry.

While en route, the incident was upgraded to a technical rescue, prompting the response of additional resources from the Modesto Fire Department, including two truck companies, one rescue company, and multiple chief officers, as well as a squad from the Turlock Fire Department.

Upon arrival, crews located a tunneling project where a collapse had occurred. One injured individual had exited the tunnel prior to the arrival of first responders and was transported by Oak Valley Ambulance to a local hospital with injuries described as minor to moderate.

A second individual remained trapped inside the tunnel. Despite extensive rescue efforts, the individual was confirmed deceased. Firefighters and rescue personnel recovered the victim from the collapsed tunnel at approximately 10:04 p.m.

The incident was determined to be within Calaveras County and the jurisdiction of the Copperopolis Fire District. Unified Command was established with Copperopolis Fire District, Modesto Fire Department, Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District, and the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office.

In total, more than 30 firefighters responded, utilizing three engines, two truck companies, one rescue, one squad, and multiple utility vehicles.The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office assisted with drone operations within the tunnel, providing critical situational awareness and supporting rescue operations.

All emergency personnel were cleared from the scene at approximately 11:00 p.m.