Charlene Carol Ferguson Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of the woman who lost her life in a traffic accident in Elk Grove over the weekend. The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim was 91-year-old Charlene Carol Ferguson, a longtime resident of Elk Grove.
The crash occurred on Saturday afternoon, October 1, at the intersection of Bond Road and Salmon Creek Drive. Elk Grove Police Department officials reported that the accident happened around 2:50 p.m.
According to police, Ferguson had been driving a Lincoln Town Car north on Salmon Creek Drive when she attempted to make a U-turn in front of the fire station located on Bond Road. Investigators say the maneuver was illegal and placed her directly in the path of another vehicle traveling through the intersection.
At that moment, a Toyota RAV4, which was heading eastbound on Bond Road, struck the driver’s side of Ferguson’s Lincoln. The impact was severe, leaving both vehicles badly damaged and prompting immediate response from emergency crews.
Ferguson was rushed from the scene to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries and was later pronounced dead. The driver of the Toyota RAV4 was also taken to the hospital but suffered only non-life-threatening injuries, according to the police report. Their identity has not yet been publicly released.
The Elk Grove Police Department stated that the preliminary findings suggest Ferguson’s attempt at the U-turn directly caused the collision. While investigators have not indicated that impairment or speed were contributing factors, they confirmed that Ferguson’s vehicle entered the roadway in violation of traffic laws.
Officials highlighted the dangers of illegal U-turns, particularly in high-traffic or restricted areas. Law enforcement agencies frequently caution drivers about the risks of such maneuvers, which can quickly lead to accidents if other motorists have little time to react.
The community has expressed grief at the passing of Ferguson, noting her advanced age and long ties to the Elk Grove area. Family and friends are now mourning her sudden loss, remembering her as a familiar and cherished figure within the community.
Meanwhile, the police continue to investigate the incident, reviewing traffic camera footage and gathering any available witness statements. They have encouraged anyone who may have additional information about the crash to contact the Elk Grove Police Department’s Traffic Bureau at 916-478-8143.
The tragic incident underscores the vulnerability of elderly drivers on the road. While many seniors remain capable and safe behind the wheel, age-related factors such as slower reaction times, reduced vision, and challenges in judging traffic conditions can increase accident risks. Authorities have used similar cases to remind families and communities of the importance of evaluating driving safety for older relatives.
Ferguson’s death is yet another reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to traffic rules for drivers of all ages. Elk Grove Police extended their condolences to Ferguson’s loved ones while pledging to conduct a thorough review of the crash to ensure all details are properly understood.
As investigations continue, the intersection where the crash occurred is being closely examined to determine if roadway design or signage may have played any role in the incident. Bond Road is known as one of the busier thoroughfares in Elk Grove, and traffic safety remains a priority for city officials.
For now, Ferguson’s family and the Elk Grove community are left to cope with the loss of a woman whose life ended suddenly in a tragic traffic accident. Her passing has added a sobering note to ongoing conversations about road safety, senior drivers, and the responsibilities shared by all motorists to protect themselves and others.
