FALLBROOK – A driver was rescued by Cal Fire, Urban Search and Rescue,
and North County Fire late Monday after a chain-reaction crash sent his vehicle over the embankment along northbound Interstate 15 near the Lilac Bridge, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision was reported about 11:20 p.m. on the northbound I-15 connector near Lilac Road. CHP logs indicate the driver first rear-ended another vehicle, then struck a call box and several road signs, scattering debris across the freeway before the vehicle went over the side of the roadway.
The vehicle traveled approximately 150 to 200 feet down an embankment and came to rest in a ravine. The driver was trapped and had to be rescued. The patient was extricated and hauled up the hill with a Stokes Basket and rope system, a process that took about 25 minutes, according to information provided at the scene. NCFPD Medic 114 transported the driver to Palomar Hospital, Code 3, according to Battalion Chief 3311 on scene. Witnesses told dispatchers the driver attempted to get out of the vehicle and may have struck his head during the crash.
Medics were requested but later declined for the car that was rear-ended after the driver reportedly refused medical treatment. The extent of any injuries was not immediately known.
CHP officers responded to the scene and coordinated recovery efforts, including requesting a tow truck to remove the vehicle from the ravine. No lane closures were reported, and it was unclear whether the driver of the other vehicle involved was injured.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but reports from the scene suggested the driver may have fallen asleep before crashing.Â
