Deneco McWilliams dies in fatal Barstow freeway incident

Deneco McWilliams dies in fatal Barstow freeway incident

Fatal Barstow freeway incident death of Deneco McWilliams – Obituary

Deneco McWilliams, a 23-year-old man from Barstow, California, was struck and killed by a big rig on the eastbound 40 Freeway on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025. San Bernardino County coroner’s officials have ruled his death a suicide.

According to the California Highway Patrol, McWilliams was standing in the right-hand lane of the two-lane freeway just east of the 15 Freeway around 9:50 p.m. when he was hit by a Freightliner truck driven by a 24-year-old man from Elk Grove. McWilliams was pronounced dead at the scene.

The CHP expressed condolences to McWilliams’ family and friends, acknowledging the difficulty of the loss. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Barstow Area CHP Office at (760) 255-5900.

For those experiencing thoughts of self-harm, support is available through the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.