VICTIM NOTICE: Relatives and close individuals of the crash victims are requested to contact 909-633-1982 for the latest information and assistance.
Last night a bus full of passengers collided with a pick-up truck on Highway 38 north of Yucaipa, killing at least 10 and injuring dozens more. The driver, who was badly injured in the crash, reported brake problems to investigators who responded to the scene. According to California Highway Patrol Spokesman, Officer Mario Lopez, the collision happened when the bus ran into the back end of a Saturn sedan, then flipped and struck a Ford pickup truck. Lopez stated, "It appears speed was a factor in this collision." Lopez went on to say “It is a horrific scene. It's a tragedy. It's probably one of the worst collisions I've witnessed in my career.
Apparently, the bus company hired to transport the passengers from Tijuana, Mexico, to Big Bear City for a day of snow play had failed a reported 36% of safety procedures in brake and tire checks required by the federal government. Still, records indicate that the feds have cleared the bus for interstate transport and travel.
Investigators are spending Monday combing through the scene on Highway 38, which was scattered with the belongings and body parts of crash victims. There is still one body left to be recovered from the bus, which sits dangling off of a mountain roadside.
Survivors were taken to local area hospitals, including Redlands Community Hospital, University of La Verne Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional, and San Bernardino Community Hospital. Area residents are encouraged to donate blood to Lifestream, which provides to local hospitals.
Lifestream donor centers are located in San Bernardino, Riverside, Ontario and Victorville. Walk-ins are welcome, to set an appointment call 1-800 TRY-GIVING. 1-800-879-4484.
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