GoFundMe – Jake Henry, 18, and Ryan Nicole Wiley, 21, were among four people tragically killed in a devastating head-on collision on State Route 299 near Del Loma, a remote community in Trinity County, California.
The fatal crash occurred on the evening of Saturday, January 24, 2026, just before 7 p.m., when a westbound Jeep Grand Cherokee veered into the eastbound lane and collided with a Chevrolet Impala carrying the victims. The impact was catastrophic, claiming multiple lives and leaving two others with serious injuries.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the Jeep was driven by 40-year-old Jose Adelaido Jimenez Garcia of Chicago. Authorities allege that Garcia was under the influence at the time of the crash. He now faces nine felony charges, including four counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The charges reflect the severity of the incident and the lives lost due to what investigators believe was a preventable act of impaired driving.
Jake Henry and Ryan Nicole Wiley were passengers in the Impala, which was traveling eastbound when the Jeep crossed the centerline. The crash occurred along a winding stretch of Highway 299, a route known for its narrow lanes and limited visibility, especially at night. Emergency responders arrived to find a chaotic scene, with both vehicles heavily damaged and multiple victims in critical condition. Despite their efforts, Henry and Wiley were pronounced dead at the scene.
Jake Henry was remembered by his family as a vibrant and compassionate young man with a bright future ahead. His sister, Linda Geer, shared that Jake had many dreams and goals, and that his laughter and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. A photo of Jake proudly holding his high school diploma has circulated widely online, symbolizing a life full of promise that was cut tragically short.
Ryan Nicole Wiley, 21, was also mourned by friends and family who described her as a caring and spirited individual. Her presence brought joy to those around her, and her loss has left a deep void in the lives of many. Both families are now navigating unimaginable grief, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Henry family during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances of the crash, including toxicology results and potential contributing factors. The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of DUI laws and greater awareness around the dangers of impaired driving. The community of Trinity County, along with the families of the victims, is now left to mourn and seek justice for the lives lost on that fateful night.
