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East Coachella, CA (January 30, 2026) – Eight people sustained injuries Wednesday afternoon following a head-on collision at the intersection of 66th Ave and Buchanan St in the Mecca area, according to Cal Fire officials. The crash triggered a large-scale emergency response due to the number of victims and the severity of the impact.
Crews were dispatched to the scene at approximately 3:30 p.m. on January 28. Upon arrival, firefighters and paramedics discovered two heavily damaged vehicles that had collided head-on near the intersection. Several occupants from both vehicles suffered a variety of injuries ranging from minor to critical.
First responders worked rapidly to stabilize the injured parties at the scene. Cal Fire confirmed that eight individuals were transported to local hospitals for further treatment. Due to the seriousness of some injuries, multiple patients were airlifted, while others were transported by ground ambulances. The identities and current conditions of those injured have not yet been released.
One of the vehicles involved sustained major front-end damage and was towed from the location. Traffic in the area was temporarily impacted as authorities worked to manage the crash scene and transport patients.
The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation. Officials have not yet released details on whether impairment, speed, or other factors played a role in the crash.
Our thoughts are with all eight individuals injured in Wednesday’s devastating crash, and we hope for their full and swift recovery.
