2 Dead In Separate Highway 4 Crashes In Martinez: CHP

MARTINEZ, CA — A Pinole man was one of two drivers killed in separate crashes Wednesday on state Highway 4 in Martinez, authorities said. The wet weather was definitely a factor in both fatal incidents, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The CHP identified John Thomas, 33, of Pinole, as the driver of a 1999 Lexus sedan that went off westbound SR-4 at 3:51 p.m. Wednesday.

The Lexus 300 had traveled into the shoulder area just east of Alhambra Avenue and struck a tree, causing major damage, the CHP said.

Thomas's injuries were too grave and he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics, the CHP said.

According to the Contra Costa County Coroner's Office, Thomas also had an address in San Francisco.

"It is unknown at this time if alcohol or drugs were a factor in this collision but it is still under investigation," the CHP said.

At 8:12 p.m. Wednesday, Contra Costa CHP was advised of another potentially fatal crash on Highway 4 in Martinez.

The solo-vehicle crash, which also involved a Lexus sedan, happened on eastbound SR-4 west of Alhambra Avenue.

A 53-year-old Pittsburg man was alone in the Lexus when he drove off the south side of the highway. The Lexus overturned and he was ejected, the CHP said.

The driver suffered major injuries and was taken to John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek but was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.

The CHP was not immediately able to determine whether alcohol or drugs were a factor in the fatal crash.

The coroner's office was expected to publicly identify the Pittsburg man once his family members were properly notified.

Both crashes remained under investigation; the CHP asked anyone with information to contact the Contra Costa CHP Office at 925-646-4980.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.