HEMET, Calif. — A single-vehicle collision caused significant damage to utility infrastructure Sunday morning when an SUV veered off the roadway, striking a fire hydrant and a power pole.
The incident was reported at approximately 10:13 a.m. at the intersection of South State Street and East Whittier Avenue.
According to preliminary reports, a white Chevy Suburban was traveling northbound on State Street when the vehicle crossed into oncoming lanes and drove onto the sidewalk. The SUV continued across the intersection before colliding with a fire hydrant and a power pole.
Units from the Hemet Fire Department, including Battalion 1, Engine 1, and Truck 4, responded to the scene alongside the Hemet Police Department. Upon arrival, Engine 1 personnel located the vehicle, which had sustained major damage.
American Medical Response (AMR) paramedics treated the driver at the scene. The driver was subsequently transported to a hospital for further examination with injuries of unknown severity.
Police are currently investigating the cause of the crash. While authorities suspect alcohol may have been a contributing factor, it has not been confirmed at this time.
The scene remained active for over an hour, with the incident cleared at approximately 11:37 a.m.
