By Patricia Farris News Review Publisher –
Steven Tuttle and his sister Michelle Tuttle were tragically killed in a head-on collision Sunday, March 5, at 1:46 p.m. The accident occurred on Highway 395, north of Kramer Junction. Steven, 35, was driving the vehicle with Michelle, his 37-year-old sister.
According to California High Patrol, the Tuttles were on their way home to Barstow after visiting friends and family in Ridgecrest when their lives were tragically taken when a wrong-way driver caused a head-on collision.
A Nissan Juke and another car were involved in the collision. The manner in which the accident happened was not immediately established. One of the cars reportedly caught fire after the collision.
Crews from the California Highway Patrol, the San Bernardino County Fire Department, and the Kern County Fire Department responded to the scene.
Additional information about the accident was not provided.
An investigation into the accident is underway. The California Highway Patrol Barstow Area is handling the investigation.
The following statement was provided on behalf of the Sierra Sand Unified School District regarding the Tuttle tragedy. “ We are all deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of siblings Michelle and Steven Tuttle. They are beloved former staff and Sierra Sands Alumni. Our love and thoughts go out to the family, friends, and colleagues during this very difficult time.”
Cody Pearce, Vice Principal of Burroughs High School, stated, “I was the Principal of Murray Middle School last year until March. Steven was a science teacher at Murray. He always had a smile and was positive and upbeat. The students enjoyed his class because of his passion and personality. He was a pleasure to be around, work with, and a great person.”
Partners Bar on Inyokern Rd., under the direction of David Erickson, held a fundraiser for the Tuttles last weekend and raised more than $3,000.
