Children Hospitalized After Dana Point Van Crash

DANA POINT, CA — Nine children were injured Wednesday when the van they were riding inside crashed into a tree in Dana Point Wednesday, authorities said. The van, towing a small trailer, was carrying a load of surf boards, which was overturned during the collision.

Five of the children, between 9 and 12-years-old, were listed as "trauma" patients and were taken to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito. Four others returned home with their parents. It is unclear, as of this report, what their conditions are.

"The other children sustained minor injuries and their parents took custody of them, signing an against medical advice form that suggested they should be taken to a hospital for a checkup," Bommarito said.

The driver was uninjured in the crash, but also signed the form, he said.

The crash happened just before 3:20 p.m. at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Cove Road in Dana Point, Bommarito said.

Orange County Sheriff's Department is investigating the cause of the single car collision. It was not clear if drugs or alcohol was involved in the crash.

OCFA Photos