CHP: Unsafe speed involved in fatal collision in Guerneville

Speed played a role Wednesday in a head-on collision that left a driver dead in Guerneville, according to authorities.

Two others were injured in the collision, which was reported about 10:45 a.m. at River Road and Bonita Avenue, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Investigators say a 39-year-old Guerneville man was going west on River Road “at an unsafe speed.”

For unknown reasons, he “veered sharply to the left” and his GMC Canyon collided with a driver who was heading east in a Chevrolet Blazer S-10, according to the CHP.

CHP officials previously reported the collision involved a black pickup and a Chevrolet Tahoe.

The Chevrolet’s driver suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The GMC’s driver had minor injuries but his passenger, a 43-year-old Guerneville man, had major injuries. Both were transported to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and the passenger was stabilized Wednesday night, CHP Officer David deRutte said.

He added there was no indication alcohol was involved in the collision.

The road was blocked for several hours during the initial investigation but officials cleared the scene by about 2:15 p.m.

The investigation is ongoing and the CHP wants anyone with information to dial 707-588-1400.

DeRutte said it was too early to comment on arrests and charges.

You can reach Staff Writer Madison Smalstig at madison.smalstig@pressdemocrat.com. On Twitter @madi.smals.