Vandals Spread Debris Across Calaveras County Roads
VALLEY SPRINGS (CBS13) -- Someone is causing a serious traffic hazard in Calaveras County by placing heavy debris on roadways, causing at least two accidents so far, authorities said.
The California Highway Patrol said vandals have placed large rocks on the stretch of Highway 26 between Jenny Lind Road and Ospital Road at least three times since May, placing blocks of granite in a curve that stretches across both lanes.
A construction crew recently began a widening project on Highway 26, but the incidents began before their work started, authorities said.
At least two people on a motorcycle have been hurt after they crashed into the barrier. It's unclear how many other drivers have been able to avoid the hazard.
One driver, Harry Bloom, said he was heading home late at night when he spotted the line of rocks, each about six inches in diameter, perfectly blocking all lanes of the roadway.
"I had to slam on the brakes," Harry said. "They should just realize that it's not funny if someone does get hurt."
Authorities say drivers should report encountering any dangerous debris.