Riverside, CA (August 8, 2025) – A deadly multi-vehicle collision early Saturday morning on eastbound State Route 91 just east of Central Ave has claimed at least one life and left multiple people injured, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The crash occurred shortly after 12:20 a.m. and involved at least three vehicles, including a black Honda Accord, a black Toyota sedan, and a black SUV.
CHP and fire crews responded swiftly to the scene where two individuals were reportedly trapped inside a vehicle. Emergency responders utilized the jaws of life to extricate the victims. Despite their efforts, one person was pronounced deceased at the scene. The extent of injuries to other parties involved has not yet been publicly disclosed.
The initial collision is believed to have been caused by a driver who reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, striking another vehicle before being hit again by a third. One of the vehicles involved was left in the middle lanes with airbags deployed, while others were found on the right shoulder. All eastbound lanes were temporarily closed, except for the slow lane, while emergency crews worked through the early morning hours.
Multiple evidence tows were requested, and a vehicle believed to be a black Polestar was impounded under California Vehicle Code 22651.5, which typically indicates a vehicle held for evidentiary purposes. The roadway was fully reopened by 3:30 a.m.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual who lost their life in this tragic incident.
Fatigue-Related Crashes and Freeway Fatalities in California
Saturday morning’s fatal collision on SR-91 in Riverside underscores the dangers associated with driver fatigue and inattentiveness—especially during late-night or early-morning hours. The reported cause, a driver falling asleep at the wheel, is a leading contributor to high-speed freeway crashes and often results in chain-reaction impacts when occurring in densely trafficked corridors.
Fatigue impairs reaction time, decision-making, and the ability to maintain lane position—all critical factors when traveling at freeway speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving contributes to thousands of injury and fatal crashes each year.
The layout of SR-91 near Central Ave, a key connector route in the Inland Empire, adds further risk due to its heavy traffic flow, multiple interchanges, and limited nighttime visibility. When a vehicle is left disabled in a travel lane—as occurred in this incident—the likelihood of secondary collisions increases significantly, especially when visibility is low and drivers have little time to react.
Multi-vehicle freeway crashes like this one often involve complex investigations, multiple tow operations, and extended closures. For surviving victims and families of those lost, the aftermath can be overwhelming—medically, emotionally, and financially.
If you or someone close to you has been affected by a fatal freeway collision, you deserve clarity, support, and reliable guidance. At Local Accident Reports, we’re here to help families and victims navigate these difficult times with accurate information and access to vital recovery resources. Contact Local Accident Reports today to begin your path toward healing and justice.
