PHELAN, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The two occupants of a Tesla who were tragically killed in a fiery head-on collision Friday morning on State Route 18 have been identified as siblings Adrianna Sanchez, 25, and Adam Sanchez, 18, both residents of Spring Valley Lake.
The crash occurred on January 23, 2026, near Shandin Road in Phelan and involved a silver Cadillac and a Tesla.
According to CHP officers, the Cadillac was attempting to pass another vehicle when it crossed into the westbound lane and struck the Tesla head-on. Both vehicles were fully engulfed in flames upon impact, and all three occupants, including the driver of the Cadillac, were pronounced deceased at the scene.
In the wake of the tragedy, Barbara Gonzales-Whittington launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “A Loving Farewell for Adrianna and Adam” to assist with funeral and memorial costs for the siblings.
“With heavy hearts, we share the loss of our beloved children, Adrianna and Adam, who were taken from us in a tragic car accident through no fault of their own,” the organizer wrote. “Our family is doing everything we can to honor their lives and lay them to rest with the love and dignity they deserve.”
The campaign states that funds will help cover funeral and memorial expenses, easing the financial burden on the grieving family.
“Your support allows us to focus on remembering Adrianna and Adam and supporting one another as a family. Any donation or share is sincerely appreciated. We are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and love we have already received,” the post continues.
As of the time of writing, the GoFundMe campaign is live and accepting donations at the following link:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-loving-farewell-for-adrianna-and-adam
As of Monday, the driver of the Cadillac has not been publicly identified, and the California Highway Patrol has not released any additional updates.
In a written statement shared with VVNG, Barbara Gonzales-Whittington expressed the family’s deep sorrow and described the incredible bond between Adrianna and Adam:
“Our hearts are filled with profound sorrow as our family grieves the tragic loss of Adrianna and Adam, two cherished siblings taken from us far too soon. From the moment they entered our lives, they brought love, laughter, and light to everyone around them. They shared a bond that was rare and beautiful—nearly inseparable—and their closeness was something that could be felt by all who knew them. Through their smiles, their kindness, and the love they had for one another, they left an everlasting mark on our hearts.”
“Adrianna and Adam were both explorers at heart, filled with curiosity and a deep passion for discovering new places and experiences. They embraced life with joy and enthusiasm, always eager to learn, grow, and create memories together. Their presence made every moment brighter, and their absence has left a silence that words cannot adequately describe.”
“Once again, words cannot fully express the depth of our loss or the sorrow we feel as a family. Each day is a journey through heartbreak, remembrance, and faith. We are grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support that have lifted us during this unimaginable time. We humbly ask that you continue to keep our family in your prayers and positive thoughts as we navigate this immense loss, holding onto faith, love, and the precious memories of Adrianna and Adam that will forever live in our hearts forever.”
The investigation is being handled by the Victorville CHP office.
Related Article: Three Killed in Fiery Head-On Collision on State Route 18 in Phelan
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