Overview
- The California Highway Patrol arrested Zachary Chernicky after investigators concluded he was at fault for a four-vehicle collision that occurred on Dec. 2, 2025, on northbound Highway 87 near Curtner Avenue.
- A Lexus and two Teslas caught fire in the crash and passengers Ivana Balistreri, 29, and her 1-year-old daughter Lilliana were killed while the Lexus driver and one Tesla driver were hospitalized.
- Authorities say Chernicky was taken into custody without incident earlier this week and was arraigned with a next court appearance scheduled for Aug. 25.
- CHP has not publicly released the specific evidence that led investigators to seek an arrest and earlier statements from the agency said alcohol and drugs were not believed to have contributed to the collision.
- Family members have launched an online fundraiser for funeral and legal expenses and the case will now move into court where further disclosures about cause and responsibility are likely to determine next steps for victims and the community.