The crash happened just after 3 a.m. Wednesday just north of Sanger on Highway 180 west of Bethel Avenue.
The California Highway Patrol says two cars were eastbound when a Dodge Charger that was speeding rear-ended a Honda Odyssey.
Investigators say 23-year-old Amber Marie Alva of Sanger was the driver of the Charger.
The Honda Odyssey skidded off the highway and struck a tree, bursting into flames.
The driver of the Odyseey died at the scene and officers have not revealed their identity.
Alva and three other people inside the Charger were injured in the crash and were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Investigators do not believe the use of alcohol was a factor in the crash.