March 23, 2018 – On 3/23/18 at approximately 2:30 pm, Mr. Milhous was driving a Dodge Ram pickup and trailer northbound on SR-49 near Rush Creek. An unnamed male was driving a Jeep Wrangler southbound on SR-49 approaching the Dodge’s location. Mr. Rice was driving a Ford Ranger directly behind the Jeep.
For an as of yet undetermined reason, Mr. Milhous allowed the Dodge to travel across the double yellow lines, directly into the path of the Jeep. The Dodge and Jeep collided head on within the southbound lane causing the Jeep to careen down the west road edge embankment, where it came to rest. The Dodge came to rest within the southbound lane of SR-49.
Mr. Rice was able to maneuver his Ford around the collision in the northbound lane as it occurred, but his Ford was struck with vehicle debris from the Dodge and Jeep traveling through the Ford’s windshield. As a result of the collision, Mr. Milhous sustained major injuries and was transported to Sutter Roseville Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
Evidence suggests the driver of the Jeep was unrestrained in the vehicle and was pronounced deceased at the scene by responding paramedics. The identity of the driver of the Jeep is being withheld until notifications have been made to next of kin. Mr. Rice sustained minor injuries and declined medical treatment at the scene.
Alcohol and/or drugs were determined to NOT be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.