HODGE, CA. (Pain In The Pass) >> A fiery crash in the Mojave Desert early this morning that resulted in a temporary shutdown of Interstate 15 southbound lanes. The fire and hazmat caused major delays for motorists traveling down from the Barstow and the Vegas area early Sunday morning.
California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Fire Department and Apple Valley Fire Department all responded to the two big rig traffic accident. The accident happened early Sunday morning January 19, at 4:14am. The collision was located on the southbound 15 about two miles after the Hodge Road exit.
Both big rigs were fully involved in flames. One of the two big rig involved was on its side. The Old Dominion Freight big rig on fire was carrying several hazardous chemicals reported having pallets of Cigarette lighters inside the trailer.
At this time two people, the driver and passenger were killed, and one person was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center with unknown injuries.
A SigAlert was issued at 4:30 am for all southbound lanes
CHP opened two lanes at 6:00am.
8am all lanes reopened.
The shoulder will remain closed for several hours into the afternoon due to accident investigation and hazmat clean-up.
The collision will be under investigation by the California Highway Patrol Barstow Office.
CHP says additional information will be updated as it becomes available.
Please check back for updates on this incident.
Update from the CHP: The accident was started with the first big rig lost control and rolled over on its side, partially blocking the slow lane. A witnessed to the accident did stop in the center divider he was traveling on the northbound side. He ran across the freeway to render aid to the truck driver.
Both witness/Good Samaritan and the truck driver were standing next to the end of the trailer in the slow lane when the driver of the Old Dominion Freight big rig did not see the debris/wreckage in the lanes and collide with the overturned big rig, As a result the Old Dominion Freight big rig to burst into flames, ran over and killed both the Good Samaritan and the driver instantly.
The driver of Old Dominion Freight big rig was transported to LLMC.
Both the Good Samaritan and the truck driver have not been ID at this time.
Update 2: The Good Samaritan killed has been identified as Michael Robert Keyser, 49 of Hesperia.
If you seen or have additional information regarding this deadly accident, please contact the California Highway Patrol Barstow Area Office at (760)255-5900.
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