A devastating multi-vehicle crash involving several semi-trucks and passenger vehicles on the westbound 10 Freeway in Ontario left at least three people dead and several others seriously injured Tuesday afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The collision was reported shortly before 1:15 p.m. just east of the 15 Freeway interchange, prompting a massive emergency response and shutting down multiple lanes for several hours.
Initial reports indicated that two people were killed and two others transported to area hospitals with major injuries. Later updates from authorities at the scene suggested the death toll may have risen to three, with four others hospitalized following the violent crash.
A SigAlert was issued shortly after the collision, closing all westbound lanes of the 10 Freeway except for FasTrak. The I-10/I-15 connector road was also shut down, causing extensive traffic backups and delays across the region. CHP urged drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
SkyCal aerial footage captured around 4 p.m. showed a scene of extensive destruction. At least three semi-trucks, one pickup truck, and multiple passenger cars were involved. One truck was seen hauling a trailer filled with debris and personal items, while several vehicles sustained severe front-end and side damage from the impact.
Emergency crews from CHP, Ontario Fire Department, and San Bernardino County Fire worked for hours to free trapped victims, clear debris, and manage a potential fuel spill from the damaged trucks.
Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims, pending notification of next of kin. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though officials said speed and chain-reaction impacts may have played a role.
The wreck caused significant commuter disruption throughout the afternoon, with westbound traffic backed up for several miles. Cleanup and lane repairs were expected to continue into the evening.
The California Highway Patrol is asking any witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage of the crash to come forward to assist investigators.
💔 This tragic collision marks yet another reminder of the dangers of high-speed travel and congestion on Southern California’s busiest freeways.
