Killed As Car Plunges Off California Mountain Road

The California Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, which was reported around 1:30 a.m. on Highway 2, between Big Pines and Wrightwood, near the Los Angeles–San Bernardino County line. "For unknown reasons, the vehicle swerved away from the roadway, struck a telephone pole and rolled down an embankment. At that time, four parties were ejected from the vehicle, CHP Officer Thaniel Ong told ABC 7." Most of those inside the 2016 Hyundai Veloster were not wearing seat belts, and alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor, officials said.

All six people involved are from Wrightwood, a town of about 5,000 people in the mountains north of Los Angeles. Responders faced a complicated rescue because most occupants were scattered outside the car and it was initially unclear how many had been inside, said Chris Prater, a public information officer for the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Upon searching the scene, responders found five people had been ejected; a sixth, who had been wearing a seat belt, removed it and exited the vehicle.

Four were pronounced dead at the scene, while two were flown by air ambulance to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton in critical condition. "The CHP reminds all motorists and passengers that seat belts save lives, the agency said. "Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective action a person can take to protect themselves in the event of a traffic collision.

The statement added: Impaired driving is illegal, dangerous, and entirely preventable. If you plan to consume alcohol, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or contact a friend or family member.