Intense Search For Car That May Have Tumbled Off Highway 1 Cliff
GRAY WHALE COVE STATE BEACH (CBS SF) -- An intense search in the pounding surf at the base of a Highway 1 cliff south of Devil's Slide was underway Monday after someone reported seeing a car plunge into the sea, authorities said.
The California Highway Patrol, San Mateo County Sheriff's Department, Cal Fire and the U.S. Coast Guard were taking part in the search at Gray Whale Cove State Park.
The San Mateo County Fire Department said one witness reported seeing a dark car driving northbound on Highway 1 quickly exit the highway across traffic and speed up as it went off the cliff.
According to a tweet from Cal Fire, tire tracks had been found coming off the highway and in a cliff-top parking turnoff going off the edge. Car parts had also been located in the waters below. However, authorities said, it was unclear if the parts connected to the report.
"They said he was a credible witness, but no credible evidence that indicates this actually happened. The debris could be connected to what happened today or it could not," said Cecile Juliette with San Mateo County Fire.
Helicopter video of the search showed pounding surf at the base of the steep cliff.
"The Coast Guard is asking if anyone knows of the person who might have been in a green Lexus vehicle that is overdue, or they're not sure where they are, please give the Coast Guard a call," said Coast Guard Lt. Toni Pehrson.
If you or anyone has additional information in this case, authorities ask that you also contact the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department.