Last Updated on March 14, 2019 by CCAR Staff
One person died and two others were injured in a two-car crash near Big Bear on Wednesday morning.
The California Highway Patrol said the crash happened at around 9:45 a.m. on Highway 18, between Big Bear Lake and Running Springs.
“A 31-year-old man from Elk Grove was driving a white 2004 Honda Civic, and travelling north on Highway 18 at an undetermined speed,” the CHP said in a press release. “An 80-year-old man from Big Bear Lake was driving a silver 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe south at around 40 mph.”
SBCO: SR-18 in the Arctic Circle, traffic collision blocking all lanes. Unknown duration. To avoid delays, use alternative route. #Caltrans8 pic.twitter.com/w61WuYynee
— Caltrans District 8 (@Caltrans8) March 13, 2019
Officials are still investigating, but initial reports from the CHP said the driver of the Honda lost control of the car, drifted to the other side of the highway and into the path of the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet crashed into the right side of the Honda.
Update: SR-18 roadway is open in both directions with reduced lanes: down bound traffic is using up bound #1 lane. The recovery and investigation continues. Unknown duration. Please slow down and use care in this area. #Caltrans8 https://t.co/MHW1Go6nPV
— Caltrans District 8 (@Caltrans8) March 13, 2019
A 22-year-old La Habra woman was in the front, passenger-side seat of the Honda, and died of her injuries at the site of the crash, according to the CHP. The Elk Grove man was transported to the Bear Valley Community Hospital with major injuries. The Big Bear Lake man had minor injuries and wasn’t transported by medical personnel on scene.
Both north and south lanes were open on Highway 18 after the crash, though traffic was limited due to at least one closed lane.
The CHP said alcohol and/or drugs are not believed to be a factor in the crash.
