ALAMO, CA — The Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office has identified the man who tragically lost his life in a freak highway accident Thursday afternoon on Interstate 680. Authorities confirmed Friday that the victim was 61-year-old Fernando Ruiz of San Jose.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the deadly incident occurred near Stone Valley Road around 2:30 p.m. Ruiz was traveling northbound in a Toyota Tundra pickup truck when a van traveling in the southbound lanes lost a rear wheel under circumstances still under investigation.
The dislodged wheel, propelled at high speed, crossed over the center divide and multiple lanes of oncoming traffic before slamming into the windshield of Ruiz’s truck. Despite immediate response from emergency services, Ruiz, who was the sole occupant of the pickup, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The driver of the van and a passenger, both of whom have not been publicly identified, were unharmed in the incident. CHP officials stated that it remains unclear what caused the van’s wheel to detach, and investigators are continuing to examine the vehicle and gather evidence.
In the aftermath of the crash, several lanes of Interstate 680 were shut down for hours, causing significant traffic backups while crews cleared debris and conducted an extensive investigation.
The CHP has appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or events leading up to it to come forward. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the CHP Contra Costa Area Office.
“This was a tragic and unusual accident,” said a CHP spokesperson. “We are committed to determining exactly what happened and if any mechanical issues, maintenance failures, or other factors contributed to this heartbreaking loss.”
Friends, family members, and members of the San Jose community are mourning Ruiz’s sudden and shocking death. He is remembered by those who knew him as a hardworking and kindhearted individual who cherished time spent with his loved ones.
The investigation remains active, and further details will be released as they become available.