According to the California Highway Patrol logs, the wreck happened around 8:49 p.m., December 23, on the southbound 15 Freeway, north of State Route 138.
San Bernardino County, CA – At least one person died when an SUV slammed into the rear of a semi-truck Tuesday night near Cajon Junction in San Bernardino County.
According to the California Highway Patrol logs, the wreck happened around 8:49 p.m., December 23, on the southbound 15 Freeway, north of State Route 138.
A big rig driver was parked on the right shoulder, changing a tire, when a red SUV slammed into the back of the semi-truck and got wedged underneath it. An unknown number of occupants were trapped in the car.
Firefighters responded and pronounced one person dead at the scene.
Heavy extrication was required to remove the car from underneath the big rig and free the occupants.
It was unclear if any other person was injured in the accident.
Multiple freeway lanes were closed during the rescue operation.
No other details were available, but an investigation is ongoing.
In 2024, there were approximately 14,615 people injured or killed in vehicle collisions within San Bernardino County. This figure represents a 3% decline in the absolute number of victims compared to the previous year. The county has a relatively high traffic fatality rate, ranking among the highest in Southern California, with about 17.22 deaths per 100,000 residents. Vulnerable road users continue to be a concern. Since 2015, there has been a 2% increase in pedestrian-involved collisions, and while the number of cyclist-involved collisions has remained flat, injuries and fatalities among cyclists are on the rise, nearing a 10-year high. Speeding remains a primary contributing factor to accidents in the region, consistent with statewide trends. Data for 2023 and 2024 are considered preliminary and subject to revision.
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