Temecula, CA (January 19, 2026) – A collision early Monday morning on southbound Interstate 15 near the Temecula South (SR-79) exit left at least one person injured, with reports of smoke coming from a vehicle involved, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was first reported around 1:50 a.m. and involved a black sedan that collided with the center divider. Witnesses noted heavy smoke emerging from the vehicle shortly after the impact. A female passenger was reported to be in pain, while a male at the scene was seen attempting to assist her out of the vehicle.
Emergency crews, including Cal Fire Riverside units and medics, responded promptly. Paramedics were dispatched to assess and treat the injured, and Inland Valley Medical Center was notified to receive at least one patient from the scene.
Traffic was impacted as units worked along multiple lanes and in the center divider to manage the situation and contain any potential fire hazard. Towing services were coordinated through Diamond Valley Towing for vehicle removal.
The full extent of injuries has not yet been released, and the incident remains under investigation.
We wish the individuals involved a full and swift recovery.
