Jackson, CA…On June 10, 2019, at approximately 1545 hours, CHP Amador officers responded to a head-on traffic collision on SR-49 south of Sandra Road. The investigation determined that Thomas Diemier, 95 of San Andreas was driving his Lexus RX350 northbound on SR-49 at an undetermined speed. A 38 year old Plymouth man was driving a 2018 GMC Denali southbound on SR-49 at 55 MPH. Diennier crossed over the solid double yellow lines into the southbound lane in order to pass a logging truck, which placed his vehicle directly into the path of Vasko’s vehicle. The front of the Lexus collided with the front of the GMC causing disabling damage to both vehicles.

After the collision, the Lexus became engulfed in flames. The initial responding CHP Officers and good Samaritans at the scene attempted to extinguish the fire and extricated Diermier from his vehicle before it became fully engulfed. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Diermier succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Vasko and his passengers all sustained major injuries and were transported to various hospitals for treatment.

It is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in this collision.