Deadly Crash on I-10 Near Chiriaco Summit Triggers Chain Reaction Collision

A fatal chain reaction crash on Interstate 10 near Chiriaco Summit claimed one life and caused significant traffic delays this afternoon. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident occurred just before noon near Exit 168, which provides access to Box Canyon Road and Cottonwood Springs Road.

Authorities report that a white Dodge pickup, traveling at full speed, rear-ended a Volkswagen, initiating a multi-vehicle collision that involved a Tesla and a semi-truck. The force of the crash caused extensive damage, leaving debris scattered across the roadway and blocking two lanes of traffic.

Tragically, the driver of the Volkswagen was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials have not released the victim’s name pending notification of next of kin. There has been no update yet on the conditions of the drivers and passengers in the other vehicles involved.

CHP officers are continuing to investigate the incident and determine the sequence of events that led to the crash. Motorists were advised to avoid the area as crews worked to clear the wreckage and reopen the lanes.

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