At least three people died and two others were hospitalized after a severe multi-vehicle collision on a California highway. The crash occurred Tuesday in Ontario around 1 p.m. on the westbound lanes of the 10 Freeway, just east of the 15 Freeway.
The incident involved up to eight vehicles, including four semi-trucks, according to reports. Dashcam footage captured a semi-truck colliding with the rear of an SUV and then striking other vehicles. California Highway Patrol (CHP) officials arrested the 21-year-old driver of the semi-truck on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.
The crash led to the closure of all westbound lanes of the 10 Freeway, except for FasTrak, causing significant traffic delays in the Inland Empire. Authorities confirmed the driver of the Freightliner tractor-trailer involved was Jashanpreet Singh from Yuba City. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of drugs after tests showed he had been impaired.
Three individuals lost their lives in the crash, while two others sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized. One victim, a 54-year-old man from Upland, has been identified, though his name remains undisclosed. The other two victims, who suffered severe burns, have not yet been named. CHP Officer Rodrigo Jimenez described the scene as “horrific,” emphasizing the profound impact on the victims’ families.