1 Dead In Fiery Crash On Highway 4 In Hercules

HERCULES, CA — One person died and another person suffered major injuries early Wednesday in a fiery crash on state Highway 4 in Hercules, just east of the Interstate 80 exchange, the California Highway Patrol said.

Officers responded shortly after 1 a.m. to find a blue 2008 Toyota Scion XB fully engulfed in flames near the westbound SR-4 transition ramp to eastbound I-80, the CHP said.

Investigators determined the Scion was driven off the ramp and burst into flames as it crashed.

The driver, a 20-year-old Antioch man, and his passenger, an 18-year-old girl from Hercules, became trapped in the car.

Firefighters extricated both victims and began life-saving efforts.

"Unfortunately, the driver did not survive and was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel," the CHP said.

The Hercules girl suffered major injuries and was rushed to a local hospital.

The driver's name was expected to be released by the coroner's office once his next of kin were properly notified.

"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. "If anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP in Martinez, (925) 646-4980."