[07-18-2024] Kern County, CA – Several People Hospitalized Following Suspected Multi-Vehicle DUI Collision in Ridgecrest

Several people were hospitalized following a suspected multi-vehicle DUI collision in Ridgecrest on Thursday evening, July 18, 2024.

According to the Ridgecrest Police Department, the traffic incident occurred just before 6:00 p.m. at the intersection of North China Lake Boulevard and West Reeves Avenue.

The number of people and vehicles involved in the incident was not provided. Pictures taken by the police at the crash site show significant damage to the cars involved, with at least one flipped on its side and resting on another.

It is said that the driver who allegedly caused the accident tried fleeing the scene before RPD arrived but was quickly detained by the officers. Although not confirmed yet, RPD suspects that alcohol intoxication is a factor in the crash. The name, age, and gender of the arrested suspect remain undisclosed.

There is no word yet on the number of people injured and the extent of the injuries sustained. However, authorities reported that several people were transported to the hospital due to the collision. As of yet, none of the victims have been identified.

No further details were immediately available, and the authorities are still gathering all the necessary information to determine the collision’s circumstances.

The investigation is ongoing.