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San Jose Identifies Victim in Five-Car Crash as Probe Reviews Possible Medical Episode

Investigators do not suspect alcohol or drugs in the wreck.

Overview

  • Kimberly Karnes, 33, was identified as the woman who died after Saturday's chain-reaction crash near Westfield Oakridge that began just before 4 p.m.
  • Investigators say a southbound Mercedes hit Karnes' Kia as it moved into a left-turn lane, and both then struck a stopped Tesla that was pushed into a BMW.
  • The Kia also hit a Toyota, and the Mercedes caught fire before officers pulled a man and a juvenile from the burning car.
  • Police say the Mercedes driver may have suffered a medical issue, though the cause remains under review.
  • All occupants except the BMW driver were hospitalized with injuries, and police report no sign of alcohol or drugs as they log the city's 18th traffic death of 2026.