Benjamin Penaloza, 23, Killed in Crash on East Fifth Street [Oxnard, CA]

Driver Critical After  Head-On Crash on East Fifth Street in Oxnard

Oxnard, CA (Dec. 3, 2025) — 23-year-old Benjamin Penaloza tragically lost his life Sunday night in a head-on crash on East Fifth Street involving two pickup trucks just outside of Oxnard, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred around 9:47 p.m. on East Fifth Street (State Route 34), east of Wood Road, in the agricultural region of the Oxnard Plain. CHP officials say the collision involved a white Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and a silver Toyota Tacoma.

According to investigators, the Toyota Tacoma—driven by 23-year-old Benjamin Penaloza—was heading eastbound at an undetermined speed. At the same time, a 47-year-old man driving the Silverado was traveling westbound on the same road.

For reasons still under investigation, the Tacoma crossed into the westbound lane, resulting in a head-on crash with the oncoming Chevrolet.

Both vehicles came to rest in the westbound lane, sustaining significant damage. Emergency crews transported both drivers to Ventura County Medical Center.

Tragically, the younger driver was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The driver of the Silverado suffered major injuries but survived.

The name of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. CHP closed East Fifth Street between Wood Road and Las Posas Road for several hours while officers conducted their investigation.

The Ventura-area CHP continues to look into the cause of the crash and has not yet determined whether drugs or alcohol played a role.

Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage to contact CHP at 805-662-2640.

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Sweet Lawyers extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Benjamin Penaloza. May the bereaved find solace and strength in this extremely trying time.

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Wrongful Death Legal Support for Families After a Fatal Head-On Collision in Ventura County

At Sweet Lawyers, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the young man who tragically lost his life in Sunday night’s collision near Oxnard.

A sudden, devastating loss like this is every family’s worst nightmare — especially when it happens to someone so young and with so much life ahead.

When fatal crashes like this occur, they often leave behind more than grief. Families are left searching for answers — and for justice. Was the crash preventable? Could different actions or road conditions have made a difference? These are painful questions that deserve honest, thorough answers.

Our team at Sweet Lawyers has spent over 40 years helping families navigate the complex aftermath of fatal accidents.

We specialize in wrongful death claims that hold negligent parties accountable, uncover critical facts, and help ease the financial burdens that follow a sudden loss — including funeral costs, loss of future income, and emotional suffering.

While law enforcement continues its investigation, your family deserves trusted legal guidance.

Even if it’s unclear who is at fault, speaking with an attorney early on ensures your rights are protected and that crucial evidence is preserved.

At Sweet Lawyers, we are here to stand with you. With compassion, experience, and dedication, we’ll fight for the answers and justice your loved one deserves.

We offer 100% free consultations, and you pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case.

Call (800) 674-7854 or visit Sweet Lawyers to speak confidentially with a member of our legal team today.