Covina Man Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI In Fiery 2-Vehicle Crash
BALDWIN PARK (CBSLA.com) — A 26-year-old man involved in a traffic collision was arrested Sunday for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to the California Highway Patrol Department, officers were sent shortly after 3:00 a.m. for report of a two-vehicle collision on the Northbound SR-57, just north of Diamond Bar Boulevard.
A preliminary investigation revealed that a victim had been stopped on the right shoulder in a 2010 Kia Forte, officers explained.
Edgar Rodriguez of Covina was traveling Northbound in a 2003 Toyota Camry towards in the victim at an unknown speed.
Rodriguez's vehicle drifted onto the right shoulder and rear-ended the Kia, forcing the victim's car to spin into traffic, blocking two lanes.
The Camry rode along the sound wall and eventually stopped on the East side of the road, officers said.
According to officers, Rodriguez was able to escape from his vehicle as it caught on fire and became engulfed in flames.
He was transported to Western Medical Hospital in Sana Tana with moderate injuries, including a broken wrist, cuts and bruising.
Three victims from the Kia were transported to UC Irvine Medical Center and Los Angeles County USC Medical by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Two of the victims were extricated and airlifted with major injuries. The other two passengers were transported by ambulance with minor to moderate injuries.
According to CHP officers, all Northbound lanes were closed North of Diamond Bar Boulevard from 3:26 a.m. to 4:08 a.m. for their helicopter to land and treat victims.
The HOV lane was reopened at 4:08 a.m. as well. All lanes were cleared at 4:54 a.m.
Rodriguez will be booked later today at the Inmate Reception Center on felony DUI charges, officers explained.
Any witnesses of the collision are asked to contact officers at (626) 338-1164.