At least 15 people were killed on Tuesday in California when an S.U.V. and tractor-trailer collided on a highway, according to emerging reports.
The New York Times reported that the accident occurred on State Route 115 near El Centro, which is east of San Diego. Imperial County Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Sal Flores confirmed to the Los Angeles Times that crews responded to a “mass fatality incident” at 6:16 a.m. (PST).
During a Facebook Live broadcast, El Centro Regional Medical Center’s managing director Judy Cruz said 14 people were pronounced dead at the scene. Nine people were transported to area hospitals, where one has died.
Officials said 27 people were in the SUV that collided with a semi-truck hauling gravel. The truck driver suffered minor injuries in Tuesday’s wreck, ABC News reported, citing California Highway Patrol.
Authorities have not yet shared details about the cause of the crash as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. Check with CrimeOnline for updates as they are made available.
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast. Listen to the latest episode:
[Featured image: KYMA video screengrab]
