California Highway Patrol release: 

On 10/31/2025, at approximately 0104 hours, the CHP Humboldt Communication Center (HCC) received a call of a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic crash on SR-96, east of Hostler Field Road. Based on CHP’s preliminary investigation, it was determined Cory Tracy was driving a 2009 Volkswagen GLI westbound on SR-96, east of Hostler Field Road. For an unknown reason, Jason McCullough was walking within the westbound lane of SR-96, and a crash occurred between the Volkswagen and Mr. McCullough. As a result of the crash, Mr. McCullough sustained fatal injuries. Mr. Tracy was evaluated for drug and/or alcohol impairment and was determined not to be impaired. Whether Mr. McCullough was under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol at the time of the crash remains under investigation.

The CHP is continuing its investigation into this crash and asks anyone with information related to it to contact the Humboldt Area office at (707) 713-6300. Please reference CHP Case Number 9125-2025-00701.

The California Highway Patrol extends its condolences to the family of the deceased and would like to thank all responding agencies for their response and assistance with this investigation.