IRWINDALE, CALIFORNIA — One woman was killed and at least 25 other people were injured, including three individuals reported in critical condition, after a semi-truck crossed the center divider and crashed into multiple vehicles on the 210 Freeway in Irwindale on Saturday morning, authorities said.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the collision was reported at approximately 8:55 a.m. on the westbound 210 Freeway, just west of Irwindale Avenue. CHP officers and the Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to the scene and discovered a major multi-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck and numerous passenger vehicles.
Investigators determined that the semi-truck had crossed through the freeway’s center divider from the eastbound lanes into opposing traffic on the westbound side. After breaching the median barrier, the truck reportedly jackknifed across several westbound lanes and collided with multiple vehicles.
An adult woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released her identity pending notification of her next of kin.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department reported that at least three people sustained critical injuries, while 25 others suffered minor injuries and received medical attention. Officials have not yet confirmed whether the deceased woman was among those initially reported as critically injured.
The crash prompted an extensive emergency response and resulted in a SigAlert for the westbound 210 Freeway. All westbound lanes were closed for several hours as firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement personnel worked to assist victims, investigate the crash, and clear the roadway. Traffic was diverted at Irwindale Avenue, causing significant congestion throughout the surrounding area.
The eastbound side of the freeway was also impacted, with the HOV lane and Nos. 1 and 2 lanes temporarily shut down due to damage to the center divider and guardrail.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released additional information regarding what caused the semi-truck to cross the median or whether any charges may result from the incident.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding this tragic collision.