El Dorado County (Dec 8 2023) – In a harrowing incident earlier today, a fatal crash on the westbound lanes of Highway 50, just east of Kyburz, brought traffic to a standstill for several hours. The Placerville California Highway Patrol station reported the unfortunate incident that unfolded around 9:45 a.m.
According to the reports, officers were dispatched to the scene near Wrights Lake Road and discovered an overturned sedan.
The vehicle collided with a barrier on the north side of the highway, causing it to flip over.
First responders then extricated the driver, John Rethke, from the vehicle and initiated life-saving efforts. However, the man succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Upon arrival, a female passenger trapped inside the overturned vehicle. The female passenger, fortunately, survived but sustained moderate injuries.
The California Highway Patrol diligently worked to manage the situation, closing down the affected stretch of Highway 50 to conduct investigations and facilitate the safe removal of the wreckage. The closure caused significant traffic disruptions in the area.
Efforts to clear the highway were successfully completed by 11:49 a.m., allowing for the resumption of normal traffic flow. The reopening of the roadway was confirmed by the California Highway Patrol, signaling a return to mobility after a somber morning marked by tragedy.
As authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances leading to the crash, our thoughts go out to the family and friends affected by this heart-wrenching incident. Further updates as more details emerge on this unfortunate event.
CHP identified the driver as John Rethke from Monterey.
