I-15 Multi-Injury Crash Totals Family's Taco Truck, DUI Driver 'Doing Donuts' Wreaks Havoc On Freeway

HEMET, CA — Drivers on the I-15 freeway on Sunday were at a standstill after a multi-car pileup sent nine people to the hospital. A Hemet family of four, towing their taco truck — a business that is now in jeopardy- was all injured in that incident, according to a family spokesperson.

Just after 4 pm., the family drove its Tacos Herradura truck southbound on I-15 through Lake Elsinore, heading home from a recent event. As they neared Nichols Road, a suspected drunk driver lost control and careened into traffic.

The taco truck was sent careening into the center divider of the freeway, according to family spokesperson Cidy Cosio. That crash led to a lengthy SIG alert closure of the freeway and nearby on-ramps, which lasted well into the evening.

"The impact caused their trailer doors to burst open, scattering their entire livelihood, food, supplies, and equipment all across the freeway," Cosio said. "Everything they've worked so hard for was destroyed in seconds."

Arriving Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department firefighters and paramedics assisted the family at the scene, including mother Rachel (Raquel), father Luis, and two daughters. Each family member was taken by ambulance to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Two family members remain under close medical supervision, with bruised kidneys, sternums and deep emotional trauma, according to Cosio. "By the grace of God, they survived what could have been a fatal accident."

Now, supporters are asking the community to help through a GoFundMe campaign, raising money to cover medical bills, recovery costs, and the loss of business, which will take months, if not longer, to recover.

Already, social media campaigns are drawing support from fellow Southwest Riverside County business owners, as well as a food truck vendor.

"When you guys are ready to rebuild your trailer or make a new one, we are here to help. And we'll keep everyone in prayers for a fast recovery," New Era Foodtrucks wrote on Instagram.

Meanwhile, recovery — in health and in welfare — is the top priority.

"We are asking our community to please come together and show love to this amazing family," Cosio said. "They have always shown kindness and served others through their food and smiles. Now it's our turn to serve them back."

Already, over $6,500 has been raised to support the family. To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com.