Thousand Palms Crash Claims Life; Multiple Injuries Reported
A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 10 near Thousand Palms resulted in one fatality and several injuries on Tuesday morning, October 3, at approximately 7:50 a.m.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a semi-truck traveling eastbound veered across the median into westbound lanes, colliding with a cement truck before being hit by a Jeep. The driver of the cement truck, a 62-year-old man from Yucca Valley, was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck driver, a 38-year-old man from Menifee, suffered major injuries and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs. In total, six individuals were taken to local hospitals, with injuries ranging from major to precautionary.
CHP reports that all lanes were reopened by early evening, following significant traffic delays throughout the Coachella Valley. The collision also caused backups on local surface streets, particularly on Washington Street and Varner Road.
Investigators with CHP are seeking additional information regarding the incident. Witnesses with dashcam footage or any relevant information are encouraged to contact Officer J. Paz at the Indio Area office at 760-772-5300.
The investigation is ongoing, focusing on the factors that may have contributed to the crash, including vehicle inspections and driver-related aspects.