The following is a press release from the California Highway Patrol. The information has not been proven in a court of law and any individuals described should be presumed innocent until proven guilty:
On July 14, 2024, at 11:02 pm, Humboldt Communications Center (CHP Dispatch) received a 9-1-1 call for a two-vehicle crash on Valley Road, east of Davidson Road, east of Willits, CA. California Highway Patrol Officers responded to the scene to investigate the crash. Julian Franks, 30 years old of Willits, CA, was driving his 1985 Toyota pickup eastbound on Valley Road. The Toyota was partially in the westbound lane, and sideswiped a 2022 Honda Accord, driven by a 16-year-old female of Willits, CA. The Toyota overturned and Franks was ejected from his vehicle. CalFire and MedStar Ambulance arrived on scene and pronounced Franks deceased. Deputies from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office arrived on scene to assist in the investigation.
The California Highway Patrol Garberville Area’s Laytonville Resident Post is conducting an investigation into the cause of the crash. The California Highway Patrol wants to remind the motoring public to wear your seatbelt. Approximately 60% of fatal crashes involve persons who are unrestrained.
