FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 16, 2026

GRIMES CANYON, Calif.— A California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer is recovering after an impaired driver crashed head-on into the officer’s patrol vehicle late Saturday night in Grimes Canyon.

On Aug. 15, at approximately 11 p.m., a CHP Moorpark Area officer was driving southbound on Grimes Canyon Road, north of Moorpark, when a Chevrolet pickup traveling northbound crossed the double yellow lines and struck the patrol vehicle head-on.

The pickup was driven by 34-year-old Derek Skinner of Santa Paula. Investigators determined Skinner was impaired and failed to maintain his lane before crossing into the southbound lanes.

Skinner suffered minor injuries in the crash. His passenger, a 40-year-old woman from Chatsworth, and the CHP officer suffered major injuries. All three were transported to a local hospital and are expected to make full recoveries.

Following the investigation, Skinner was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for driving under the influence of alcohol causing bodily injury, in violation of California Vehicle Code section 23153(a).

“Driving under the influence is a dangerous choice that can have life-changing consequences,” said CHP Lieutenant Randy O’Brien. “There is never a reason to get behind the wheel while impaired. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, call a friend or family member, or make other arrangements to get home safely. The options are there. If you’ve been drinking, don’t drive.”

Grimes Canyon Road was closed in both directions for approximately three hours following the crash. The Moorpark Police Department, Fillmore Police Department, Ventura County Fire Department and American Medical Response assisted at the scene with medical care and scene safety.

The CHP Moorpark Area office is investigating the crash. Anyone with information about the collision is encouraged to contact the CHP Moorpark Area office at (805) 553-0800.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of 

Safety, Service, and Security.

Officer Ryan Ayers

CHP Moorpark Area

RAyers@chp.ca.gov

(279) 204-9553