Four Temecula Young Adults Hospitalized in Rollover Freeway Wreck, DUI Suspected

A group of Temecula young adults were injured early Thursday morning when one of them was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and crashed on I-215, the CHP reports.

The crash happened about 2:30 a.m. on northbound Interstate 215, at the off-ramp to Scott Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Officer Mike Lassig said 23-year-old Matthew Barton of Temecula was at the wheel of a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero that veered out of control on the exit ramp at an undetermined speed.

"The vehicle traveled off the west roadway edge and struck a sign post, overturning down a steep embankment," Lassig said. "The Oldsmobile rolled approximately 50 feet from the roadway, coming to rest on its left side."

One of the car's four occupants, 21-year-old Brianna Miranda of Temecula, was "not properly restrained" in the left rear passenger seat and was thrown out of the sedan, suffering major trauma, according to Lassig.

He said Barton was also ejected from the sedan and suffered moderate injuries.

The other two occupants, a 19-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man, had moderate injuries, as well, according to Lassig.

Blood work obtained from Barton showed he was under the influence at the time of the wreck, Lassig alleged.

The suspect was arrested but released for treatment at Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar. The three passengers were also transported to the same hospital for treatment, Lassig said.

He said the crash highlights why it's essential to "designate a sober driver and always buckle up."

– City News Service contributed to this report. Image via Google Maps.