A serious traffic collision occurred today in Mountain View, CA, involving a single vehicle, a white SUV, which crashed into a tree and subsequently caught fire. The incident was reported at approximately 4:21 PM on the southbound lanes of State Route 85, near the interchange with State Route 82.
Emergency services were dispatched shortly after the collision was reported, with units arriving on the scene at around 4:32 PM. Upon arrival, responders confirmed that the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The fire was extinguished, and both occupants of the SUV were found to have sustained facial lacerations. Medical assistance was provided promptly, ensuring the safety and care of the injured individuals.
The timeline of events unfolded rapidly, with smoke first observed from the vehicle just a minute after the collision. By 4:24 PM, the SUV had caught fire, leading to significant damage that rendered it undriveable. The vehicle was confirmed to be off the roadway by 4:50 PM, and a tow truck was called to remove it from the scene.
Traffic in the area was impacted during the incident, with lane closures implemented to facilitate emergency response efforts. By 6:21 PM, the roadway was cleared, and normal traffic flow resumed.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision, which involved the SUV crashing into a tree and subsequently igniting. Fortunately, the quick response from emergency services likely prevented further injuries and ensured that the situation was managed effectively.
As a reminder, drivers are urged to remain vigilant and cautious while navigating roadways, especially in adverse conditions. The California Highway Patrol continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.