San Jose, California – Authorities are investigating a tragic incident that occurred early this morning along U.S. Highway 101, which resulted in a fatality now under examination as a possible suicide or accident.

The event has left commuters shocked and local officials urging caution while the facts are gathered. According to preliminary reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident unfolded around 6:15 a.m. near the Story Road exit in San Jose.

Emergency calls reported a person on or near the roadway, followed moments later by a collision involving at least one vehicle. CHP officers and San Jose police quickly responded to the scene, where they found an individual with fatal injuries.

The circumstances leading to the person’s presence on the busy freeway remain unclear. Investigators are considering multiple possibilities, including that the individual may have jumped intentionally from an overpass or accidentally wandered onto the roadway.

Detectives are also reviewing whether impairment, disorientation, or other mental health factors could have played a role. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

Officials say they are working closely with the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Autopsy and toxicology results will be key in clarifying the timeline and nature of the events.

The collision caused significant traffic delays during the morning rush hour, with several lanes closed for more than two hours as investigators documented the scene and cleared debris. Commuters reported backups stretching for miles, and CHP issued traffic advisories urging drivers to avoid the area. The roadway has since fully reopened.

Police say surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras and dashcam recordings from passing motorists could help piece together what happened. They are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant video to contact investigators.

Mental health advocates in the region have expressed sadness at the news and emphasized the importance of public awareness around crisis intervention.

“Whether this was an intentional act or a tragic accident, it’s a reminder that people can be in deep distress without us realizing it,” said Dr. Elaine Porter, a counselor with a San Jose crisis center. “It’s important to check in on friends, family, and neighbors, and to know what resources are available.”

The incident comes amid broader statewide concerns about pedestrian fatalities on high-speed roadways and the growing need for preventative safety measures such as protective barriers on overpasses.

Caltrans has stated it will review the location to assess whether additional safety improvements are warranted. Authorities stress that the investigation is still in its early stages and that no conclusions should be drawn until all evidence is analyzed.

Anyone in immediate emotional distress or thinking about self-harm is urged to call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, for free, confidential support 24/7.