Pedestrian Suffers Life-Threatening Injuries In Menifee Crash

MENIFEE, CA — A collision between a minivan and sedan on Highway 74 in Menifee pushed the smaller vehicle onto the sidewalk, where it slammed into a pedestrian, inflicting life-threatening injuries, authorities said Monday.

The crash happened shortly before 7 p.m. Sunday on Highway 74 at Third Street, according to the Menifee Police Department.

The agency said that a Ford Windstar was going eastbound on the four-lane corridor when the driver, whose identity was not disclosed, initiated a left turn to go north on Third. About that time, a Nissan Altima approached from the opposite direction at an unconfirmed speed, police spokesman Chase Coburn said.

"The Ford collided into the Nissan," he said. "The Nissan was forced onto the sidewalk and struck the pedestrian."

Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department paramedics arrived minutes later and found the victim, whose identity wasn't disclosed, with major head trauma. He was taken to a regional trauma center for treatment and was listed in stable condition Monday morning, according to Coburn.

"The victim is awaiting surgery for his injuries," he said.

The Nissan driver, also not identified, suffered minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital overnight. The Ford driver wasn't hurt. The motorist was questioned but not arrested.

Coburn said there was no indication drugs or alcohol may have been factors in the collision.