In Dobbins, Yuba County, a routine day turned disaster when a major pipe rupture at the Colgate Powerhouse caused a mudslide and evacuations, resulting in a washed-out road. Truck driver Cesar Garcia, who was just picking up a load at the time, found himself stuck without his rig, which is still trapped at the bottom of the mountain. For nearly two weeks, he’s been out of work and has lost approximately $15,000 in potential earnings while relying on dwindling savings to get by.
Garcia’s been reaching out to various agencies for information, but answers have been scarce. According to Willie Whittlesey from the Yuba Water Agency, the truck’s condition isn’t the problem—it’s the completely washed-out road that makes it impossible to get it back. They’re aware of the urgency and plan to start repairs soon, but there’s still no set timeline for when that road will be passable again.
As he navigates this challenging situation, it’s clear that Garcia is feeling the pressure from mounting bills and the strain of uncertain times. While the community rallies in support, it raises the question: how can systems be strengthened to better assist those caught in unexpected crises like this? Let’s hope this story inspires some much-needed change alongside a timely recovery for Garcia.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
