3 Construction Workers Killed In Big Rig Crash In Riverside County: CHP

BLYTHE, CA — Three construction workers were killed Friday morning in a crash involving a big rig and multiple vehicles on the 10 Freeway in Blythe, authorities said.

The crash was reported at 6 a.m. on the eastbound 10 Freeway near Intake Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol.

A preliminary investigation revealed the big rig was traveling east at an unknown speed when it struck a parked attenuator construction vehicle and an unoccupied Chevrolet Silverado before colliding with a water truck, the CHP said.

"During the sequence of events, three construction workers were also struck and sustained fatal injuries," the agency said.

The big rig driver, identified as a 44-year-old Redlands man, suffered severe injuries to his head and leg, and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, the agency said.

The CHP said alcohol and drugs were not believed to be factors in the collision.

A SigAlert was issued shortly before 6 a.m. for the eastbound 10 Freeway after authorities closed the lanes to clean up and continue the investigation.

Motorists were advised to use alternate routes and avoid the area.

The cause of the collision is under investigation.

City News Service contributed to this report.