CATHEDRAL CITY, CA – Authorities have released further details following a deadly crash that claimed two lives and caused major traffic disruption along Interstate 10 early Thursday morning.
The incident occurred just after 6:40 a.m. near Date Palm Drive, when a semi-truck traveling westbound on I-10 veered toward the center divider, crossed over the guardrail, and entered the eastbound lanes, according to California Highway Patrol Officer David Torres. The truck overturned upon entering opposing traffic, triggering a chain-reaction crash involving multiple vehicles.
The impact of the crash forced the closure of all eastbound lanes, as emergency personnel responded to the scene. A coroner was called, and two fatalities have since been confirmed. The names of the victims have not been released pending family notification.
In addition to the two people killed, an unspecified number of others sustained injuries of unknown severity. Several victims were reportedly trapped in their vehicles, prompting a coordinated rescue effort from first responders.
By 9:00 a.m., lanes 1 and 2 of eastbound I-10 had reopened to traffic, but lanes 3 and 4 remained closed. A SigAlert remains in effect as the investigation continues and crews work to remove debris and the overturned semi from the roadway.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. It is not yet clear why the truck crossed into oncoming traffic, and authorities have not indicated whether impairment or mechanical failure may have played a role.
Traffic in the area remains heavily congested, and motorists are advised to avoid the stretch of I-10 near Date Palm Drive and seek alternate routes if possible.
This is a developing story, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
