COLTON, CA – A tragic multi-vehicle accident brought traffic to a standstill on the Eastbound 10 Freeway in Colton late Friday, resulting in the death of at least two individuals. The collision, which occurred at around 6:11 p.m., involved a vehicle that reportedly crossed from the westbound lanes over the center divider, leading to a devastating crash.
Emergency responders, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Colton Fire Department, and American Medical Response (AMR), rushed to the scene east of Pepper Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered two people trapped in the wreckage. Despite their efforts, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. The identities of the deceased have not been released, pending notification of their families.
The freeway’s eastbound lanes were shut down as authorities worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the accident. A SigAlert was issued by the CHP, indicating a significant delay for motorists as traffic backed up to Fontana. The closure led to a frustrating evening commute for many drivers who were caught in the gridlock.
Colton Fire Department crews were called back to the crash site to assist with the extrication of the deceased, a task that underscored the severity of the collision. While the exact number of people transported to local hospitals remains unclear, the aftermath of the accident highlighted the potential dangers of freeway travel.
As investigators continue to piece together the moments leading up to the crash, questions remain about how the vehicle managed to cross the center divider and whether speed, driver error, or other factors played a role. The CHP San Bernardino is leading the investigation, seeking any witnesses who might provide additional information.
This accident serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable nature of highway travel and the importance of road safety. As authorities work to determine the cause of the collision, the community is left to grapple with the loss of life and the impact on those involved.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days as officials work to understand the circumstances of this tragic event.