Teen Dies After Fall From Crockett Highway Overpass During Sideshow, CHP Says

A teenager watching a sideshow in the East Bay died after falling from a highway overpass early Saturday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

Officials say the 16-year-old attempted to jump across a gap between freeway ramps near I-80 and the Carquinez Bridge in Crockett. The teen fell about 75 feet from the elevated Pomona Street on-ramp to the ground below.

Drone and cellphone video captured the chaotic scene, showing spinning cars, heavy smoke, fireworks, and large crowds. More than 100 vehicles had blocked roads near Pomona and Merchant Streets for the sideshow.

Local residents say the event disrupted their quiet neighborhood. “It woke me up about 3 o’clock in the morning,” said Crockett resident Jim Delisle, who added that sideshows have become a recurring problem.

Another witness, Scott Cranston, said he was shocked to learn a teenager had died. “The sideshow is just a matter of there would be a fatality,” he said. “They’re hanging out of cars, they are recklessly driving.”

Giovanni Morales, who frequently walks in the area, called the death heartbreaking. “I think the younger generation needs to be more responsible—be aware of their surroundings and watch what they do.”

Authorities have not yet identified the teen. The CHP emphasized that sideshows are not only illegal but dangerous, warning that both spectators and participants can face penalties.

Investigators are asking for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information can contact CHP’s Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov.

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