Rider ID'd Following Crash That Killed Woman, 2 Horses, East Of Temecula

ANZA, CA — One of two women struck by a sedan on state Route 371 in Anza while riding horses remained under intensive care Tuesday, while an investigation continued into the crash, which killed her friend and their steeds.

The victim, identified only as a 34-year-old Temecula resident, was hit just after 9 p.m. Sunday on the eastbound 371, near Bailiff Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Her riding partner, 48-year-old Monique Morton of Anza, was killed in the crash.

The survivor suffered major injuries and was last reported in stable but serious condition at a regional trauma center.

CHP Officer Ricardo Palomera said that a 70-year-old woman at the wheel of a 2016 Hyundai four-door sedan was traveling at an unconfirmed speed on the two-lane highway when she plowed into the two horses and their riders.

Riverside County Fire Department crews reached the location within 20 minutes and pronounced Morton dead at the scene. The other victim was airlifted to the hospital.

The motorist, who apparently was not injured, was detained for questioning but was not arrested.

"At this time, alcohol or drugs do not appear to have played a part in the crash," Palomera said.

It was unclear whether the equines died from the impact, or were humanely euthanized on the highway due to their injuries.

The corridor was partially shut down until the predawn hours Monday while a preliminary investigation was conducted.

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation was asked to contact the Beaumont CHP office at 951- 846-5321.