MERCED COUNTY — Two drivers were airlifted to Modesto trauma centers on the afternoon of July 7 after a head‑on collision on State Route 165 south of Westside Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash was reported at about 2:02 p.m., when the Merced Communications Center received a call about a two‑vehicle injury collision on the rural stretch of highway. CHP officers arrived and determined the crash involved a northbound 2016 Freightliner box truck and a southbound 2017 Peterbilt semi‑truck hauling roughly 80,000 pounds of livestock feed.

Investigators said the Freightliner, driven by a 55‑year‑old Turlock man, was traveling about 55 mph when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed into the southbound lane. The truck collided head‑on with the Peterbilt, driven by a 44‑year‑old Winton man, also traveling about 55 mph.

Both vehicles came to rest in the southbound lane, and both drivers were trapped inside their cabs. Cal Fire crews extricated the men before they were flown to hospitals in Modesto with major injuries.

CHP said alcohol and drugs do not appear to be factors in the crash, which remains under investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information about the events leading up to it is asked to contact CHP Investigating Officer Rudy Briones at (209) 356‑6600. Media inquiries may be directed to Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356‑6608.

CHP officials reminded motorists to stay alert behind the wheel, noting that even a brief lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences on the roadway.