Child Airlifted in Critical Condition, Horse Killed in Massive Crash on 5 Freeway in Gorman
GORMAN, CA (March 23, 2019) – Several people were injured, and a horse was killed following a multi-vehicle pileup Saturday afternoon on 5 Freeway in Gorman.
The crash happened around 2:43 p.m. along the southbound lanes of the freeway. First responders arrived to the area near Gorman School Road shortly after.
Officials said a dense fog led a series of collisions that involved around 25 to 50 vehicles. At least 30 victims were found injured on scene upon medics arrival. 15 occupants were hospitalized due to the extent of their wounds. A 2-year-old child was also airlifted in critical condition.
Most victims were able to escape from the mangled vehicles scattered across the roadway. One horse inside a trailer died on scene due to the impact of the crash. The two other horses inside the trailer luckily survived.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department sent four paramedic squads, two air squads, two hazardous material teams and two urban search and rescue teams to the scene. Emergency responders from Kern and Ventura counties also assisted due to the extent of the wreckage.
Video from the scene showed traffic at a standstill and several cars on fire. All flames had eventually been extinguished upon authorities arrival.
The collision shut down the southbound side of the freeway between Frazier Mountain Road and Gorman Road. The roadway was consequently blocked off for more than four hours. Surrounding lanes were later re-opened roughly around 6:35 p.m.
CHP confirmed that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the incident. State officials believe drivers have a difficult time adjusting to the weather conditions, resulting in more dangerous collisions.
No further details have been given at this time. The multi-vehicle accident currently remains under investigation to determine liability.
The impact of an accident can be harmful and pose high risks of damages and injuries. In order to avoid getting involved in a serious collision, it’s important to always give your full attention to the road. This also means avoiding road distractions and paying attention to other motorists around.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, call our hotline at (800) 674 7852 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney and find out how we can help you. Our legal professionals at The Sweet Law Group are skilled in handling any kinds of accident cases. We have been winning legal battles of injured victims for over 44 years and we also want to extend our service to you during this time of need. Allow our team to fight for your rights today.