[01-28-2026] Merced County, CA – Woman Missing After Dune Buggy Crashes Into Delta-Mendota Canal Near Gustine

A woman remains missing following a crash into a canal in Merced County late Wednesday night, January 28, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around midnight at the Delta-Mendota Canal near Gustine. 

Authorities said a dune buggy was traveling along the canal bank near Route 140 at Gravel Pit Road when the driver became disoriented and crashed into the waterway.

CHP officials identified the driver as 21-year-old Elixandro M. of Modesto. Investigators stated that the driver and two of his three passengers were able to reach safety. A woman in her 20s, who was also a passenger in the vehicle, remains unaccounted for.

Authorities reported that Elixandro left the scene following the crash but was later located and arrested. He was booked into the Merced County jail. The dune buggy involved in the incident has since been recovered.

Search efforts and the investigation into the crash remain ongoing.

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