The crash was reported at approximately 8:28 p.m. on northbound SR-86 near Red Earth and south of Norm Niver Road.
Thermal, CA – One person was killed, and at least two others suffered major injuries in a two-vehicle collision Monday night on State Route 86 in Thermal, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported at approximately 8:28 p.m. on northbound SR-86 near Red Earth and south of Norm Niver Road.
Initial investigations indicated that a white Kia and a black SUV collided in or near the center divider area.
Emergency responders from fire and law enforcement agencies arrived to find multiple injured occupants in the roadway. CHP logs stated that at least one person was unconscious and lying in the northbound lanes, while additional occupants suffered injuries to the head and face.
Authorities said two victims were transported to Desert Regional Medical Center with major internal injuries. Airships landed on the highway during the emergency response, forcing the closure of northbound lanes for an extended period.
Traffic quickly backed up for nearly two miles as officers worked to secure the crash scene and coordinate emergency medical transport. Tow trucks were called to remove at least two heavily damaged vehicles from the roadway.
CHP officers later confirmed that one person died as a result of the collision. The Riverside County Coroner’s Office was requested to the scene, although the identity of the deceased victim was not immediately released.
Investigators worked for several hours overnight to reopen lanes and document evidence from the crash scene. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.