Calexico, CA (May 24, 2025) – An individual was airlifted to a hospital Friday evening after sustaining severe injuries in a two-vehicle collision on State Route 98 near Barbara Worth Rd in Calexico. The crash occurred around 7:40 PM on the eastbound side of SR-98, just west of the Imperial Regional Detention Center.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision, which involved a Toyota Camry and a gray sedan. One of the vehicles reportedly overturned during the crash, adding to the complexity of the emergency response. Mercy 27, an air ambulance service, was dispatched and transported the seriously injured victim to a nearby hospital for further care.
The exact circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. The crash scene caused traffic disruption on SR-98 as emergency responders worked to stabilize the victim and clear the wreckage.
Our thoughts are with the injured individual and their family during this difficult time.
Highway Accidents and Medical Evacuations in Rural California
State Route 98 is a key roadway serving the rural Imperial Valley region and frequently used by local commuters, commercial vehicles, and staff commuting to regional facilities such as the Imperial Regional Detention Center. Although the route sees less congestion than urban highways, its higher-speed zones and limited lighting can lead to serious injury crashes.
In incidents where critical injuries occur—such as rollovers—air medical evacuations are often necessary due to the remote nature of many crash sites in this region. According to California EMS reports, the use of air ambulances like Mercy 27 significantly improves trauma outcomes for victims in rural crashes, especially when transport time to trauma centers is otherwise extended.
For drivers navigating SR-98 and other rural highways, maintaining safe speeds, avoiding distractions, and staying alert to sudden changes in traffic conditions are vital. Even a momentary lapse can result in life-threatening consequences, particularly in areas with limited emergency access.
For those injured in such incidents, immediate medical attention and thorough documentation of the crash are critical. Legal representation may also help victims secure compensation for medical bills, ongoing treatment, lost income, and other damages stemming from the collision.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.