Driver Blamed For Fiery Fatal Chain Reaction Crash Near Ventura A "No Show" In Court

Wednesday April 17, 2024

(Photo courtesy CHP Ventura)

   Updated--The driver authorities blame for a fiery fatal chain reaction crash on the Northbound 101 northwest of Ventura in May of 2023 failed to show for his preliminary hearing Wednesday.

     The judge then revoked bail for 30-year-old Cody Zornes of Lancaster and issued a warrant for his arrest.       

     Zornes is facing one count of Felony Vehicular Manslaughter with Gross Negligence and three counts of Misdemeanor Reckless Driving with Bodily Injury.

     He originally pleaded not guilty to all charges.

     The crash happened around 9:25 AM Monday May 15, 2023.

     The authorities alleged that Zornes was traveling in a Ford F-550 pickup northbound on the 101 in the left lane at a speeds greater than 65 miles an hour when he rear ended a Toyota Tacoma pickup driven by 50-year-old Jose Zarate of Ventura.

     The CHP says that started a chain reaction crash that involved three other vehicles.

      Zarate's vehicle burst into flames and he was trapped inside.

      He died at the scene.

      Meanwhile Zornes and the other drivers either suffered minor or no injuries.

      The CHP says alcohol and drugs were NOT a factor in the crash.