Running Springs, CA (June 13, 2026) – A head-on collision involving an SUV and a pickup truck was reported early on Friday morning at the junction of SR-330 and SR-18 near Running Springs. The crash was reported around 6:25 a.m., with debris scattered across the roadway and all lanes initially blocked.
Emergency units were dispatched after reports indicated at least one person was trapped inside a vehicle. Rescue crews requested specialized extrication equipment to assist at the scene. A white SUV and a pickup truck sustained heavy damage and came to rest blocking opposing lanes of travel. One passenger in the SUV reportedly told investigators he had been asleep when the crash occurred.
Both directions of the highway remained closed for a period while crews worked to assist those involved and clear the roadway. The extent of injuries was not immediately released.
Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the collision. We are keeping everyone affected in our thoughts and wishing those hurt a full recovery.
Why Head-on Collisions Can Result in Serious Roadway Closures
Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of roadway crashes because the force of both vehicles is directed toward each other. These crashes frequently result in extensive vehicle damage, roadway debris, and prolonged traffic disruptions.
When a head-on collision occurs, investigators typically examine lane position, vehicle movement, and roadway conditions leading up to the crash. Damage patterns and final resting positions can provide valuable information about how the vehicles came together. In mountain corridors and highway junctions, road geometry and visibility may also be reviewed to better understand the sequence of events.