Four people were killed and two others were critically injured early Friday after a vehicle veered off Angeles Crest Highway near Flume Canyon Road in Wrightwood, authorities reported. The crash occurred just before 1:40 a.m. and involved a single vehicle that rolled into a meadow area, ejecting all five occupants.
The San Bernardino County Fire Department confirmed the fatalities and critical injuries following a rescue operation that required 40 feet of cable to reach the victims. Emergency responders found five passengers ejected from the vehicle, with one wearing a seatbelt that was later removed. Two survivors were airlifted to a local trauma center for treatment. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating the incident.
The crash site is located near the Los Angeles-San Bernardino County line, approximately 70 miles northeast of Los Angeles. The challenging terrain and remote location delayed rescue efforts, as responders initially struggled to account for all passengers due to the scattered positions of the ejected individuals. The CHP’s traffic log documented the use of specialized equipment to extricate the victims.
No further details about the cause of the crash have been released. Authorities have not indicated whether speed, weather conditions, or other factors contributed to the incident. The identities of the victims have not been publicly disclosed pending notification of next of kin. The CHP has not confirmed whether any citations or charges will be issued as the investigation continues.