A tragic traffic collision on Interstate 710 South at the Gerald Desmond Bridge in Long Beach, CA, today resulted in a fatality. The incident began at approximately 2:29 PM, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. By 3:04 PM, the situation escalated, leading to the confirmation of at least one fatality.
Emergency units arrived promptly to manage the aftermath of the collision. Multiple units from law enforcement and fire services were dispatched to provide assistance and ensure the safety of all individuals involved. Significant traffic disruptions were reported, with lanes closed and traffic diverted to alternate routes to facilitate the ongoing investigation and cleanup efforts.
The California Highway Patrol issued a SIG alert shortly after the incident, indicating that the first three lanes of the highway would be shut down for an unknown duration. Only the fourth lane remained open to allow for some traffic flow. This closure was necessary to accommodate the investigation and the collection of evidence from the scene, as well as to ensure the safety of emergency responders.
Witnesses reported seeing a GMC utility vehicle involved in the collision, but specific details regarding the total number of vehicles involved remain unclear. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As of now, the Gerald Desmond Bridge remains closed to traffic, and motorists are advised to seek alternative routes. The California Highway Patrol is urging drivers to exercise caution in the area as they continue their investigation.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers present on our roadways. The California Highway Patrol encourages all drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future.