California Man Seriously Injured After Frozen Water Balloon Shatters Windshield Along Highway 20
MARYSVILLE, CALIFORNIA — A California man suffered serious injuries after a frozen water balloon smashed through his car’s windshield, sending shards of glass into his face and eyes while he was driving home from work, according to reports from ABC News.
The frightening incident occurred along Highway 20 near Marysville, north of Sacramento, where investigators believe the frozen object was intentionally thrown from an overpass or roadside area as the man’s vehicle passed below.
Driver Injured as Frozen Balloon Shatters Windshield
The victim, whose name has not been released, told reporters that the frozen water balloon exploded through the glass at high speed, striking him in the face and scattering sharp fragments of glass throughout his car.
“It all happened in an instant,” he said. “The windshield just exploded. I felt burning and couldn’t open my eyes — I thought I was going to die.”
He managed to pull his vehicle safely to the side of the highway despite bleeding from multiple facial cuts and impaired vision. Emergency responders arrived shortly afterward and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for eye and facial injuries.
California Highway Patrol Investigating Attack
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed to ABC News that the case is under active investigation. Detectives are currently reviewing nearby surveillance cameras and gathering witness statements to identify who may have thrown the frozen balloon.
Officials described the incident as an “act of reckless endangerment” that could have easily turned fatal.
“This wasn’t a prank — it was an act that could have killed someone,” a CHP spokesperson said. “Anyone caught doing something like this will face serious criminal charges.”
Highway Hazards and Similar Incidents
Authorities say this type of incident — objects being thrown from overpasses — has become an increasing concern across U.S. highways in recent years. Even seemingly small objects, when thrown at vehicles traveling at high speed, can cause catastrophic damage.
Traffic safety experts emphasize that frozen objects are particularly dangerous because they retain their mass and rigidity, effectively turning into deadly projectiles when airborne.
Community Shock and Safety Warning
Residents in the Marysville area expressed outrage after images of the shattered windshield were shared online. The photo, showing a large spiderweb crack directly in front of the driver’s seat, quickly spread across social media, prompting widespread calls for arrests.
The victim said he hopes that whoever is responsible understands the consequences of their actions before someone is killed.
“If it had hit an inch higher or harder, I might not be here,” he said.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The CHP is urging motorists who travel along Highway 20 or nearby overpasses to remain alert and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Yuba-Sutter CHP Office.
Stay tuned for verified safety updates and developing reports at NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.