Driver Sought In I-10 Hit-And-Runs That Snarled Pass Area Traffic

CALIMESA, CA — A pickup truck driver collided with four vehicles on Interstate 10 in Calimesa Tuesday, injuring three people, one seriously, then fleeing eastbound on the freeway, prompting a search by the California Highway Patrol.

The hit-and-run collisions occurred at about 12:30 p.m. just west of the Sandalwood Drive exit ramp from I-10, according to the CHP.

The agency said the motorist, at the wheel of a red pickup, struck four vehicles at an unconfirmed speed, then accelerated away in the direction of Palm Springs.

The occupants of two sedans and a van were injured, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department. Two people suffered minor injuries, while the third had major injuries, officials said.

The parties, whose identities were not disclosed, were taken to a hospital for treatment.

Two freeway lanes were obstructed as a result of the hit-and-run, snarling eastbound traffic going through the San Gorgonio Pass.

No license plate information on the pickup was provided.