(This story has been updated with additional information.)
A fiery crash involving three big rigs along Highway 40 in Newberry Springs on Friday left a driver dead and severely damaged the roadway, prompting the “indefinite” closure of westbound lanes, authorities said.
The wreck was first reported just before 7 p.m. April 17 on the westbound side of the freeway, near the Desert Oasis Rest Area, just west of Harvard Road, according to California Highway Patrol logs.
First responders arrived to encounter a crash involving three big rigs and two other vehicles, logs show. Two of the trucks were “fully engulfed” inflames.
One person was found badly injured among the wreckage and died at the scene, officials said. San Bernardino County coroner’s officials were summoned to respond.
Identification of the victim was pending.
All westbound lanes of the 40 Freeway remained closed at Hector Road “indefinitely” into Sunday afternoon due to road damage. It was not clear when they would reopen.
In the meantime, westbound traffic was being diverted to National Trails Highway via a single traffic lane in both directions, causing significant backups.
“San Bernardino County Public Works crews are on scene actively assessing damage and making emergency repairs to safely reopen access as soon as possible,” according to a CHP statement. “Please avoid the area if possible and seek alternate routes. Expect delays and follow all posted signage and directions from emergency personnel.”
No further details were available.
Any witnesses, or anyone with information, can reach the CHP’s Barstow Area Office at 760) 255-5900.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Deadly big rig crash shuts down westbound 40 Fwy. in Newberry Springs
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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