What Happened?
On September 25, 2026, three construction workers were killed and a driver suffered major injuries in a multi-vehicle collision on eastbound Interstate 10 east of Intake Boulevard near Blythe, according to reporting by Patch that cited the California Highway Patrol. If you or a loved one has been injured in a California roadway collision, contact DC Law Group for a confidential consultation. Call (310) 571-8860
The collision was reported at approximately 5:15 a.m. A preliminary CHP account stated that a tractor-trailer traveling east struck a parked attenuator construction vehicle and an occupied Chevrolet Silverado before colliding with a water truck. CHP reported that three construction workers were also struck and sustained fatal injuries.
The tractor-trailer driver, identified in the report as a 44-year-old Redlands man, suffered major head and leg injuries and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs. The initial reporting did not state his later medical condition.
What Authorities Reported
The crash occurred in an active pavement project area on eastbound I-10 east of Intake Boulevard. The available account described several vehicles and work-zone equipment, including a big rig, an attenuator vehicle, a Chevrolet Silverado, and a water truck. The three workers who died were identified as Christopher Benavidez Guatemala of Coachella, Alfonso Vega Torres of Coachella, and Francisco Morales Mendoza of Tonopah, Arizona.
CHP Officer Jack Barron said the investigation was complex and that updated information was not immediately available. Authorities said alcohol and drugs were not believed to be factors in the collision, but the investigation remained ongoing. That preliminary statement is not a final determination of responsibility.
Work-Zone Collision Investigation
A crash involving a commercial tractor-trailer, work-zone equipment, and construction personnel may require investigators to examine the sequence of impacts from multiple positions. Relevant evidence can include photographs of the roadway and vehicles, dashcam or surveillance video, 911 records, witness statements, traffic-control plans, work-zone warnings, vehicle inspection and maintenance records, driver logs, and medical documentation. The specific evidence depends on the facts and the agencies involved.
People who witnessed the collision should preserve original photographs and video, write down what they observed while memories are fresh, and provide information through the appropriate investigating agency. Anyone injured should follow medical instructions and keep records of treatment, restrictions, missed work, vehicle damage, insurance communications, and other effects of the crash. No one should enter active traffic lanes or approach damaged vehicles unless directed by emergency personnel.
If you or a family member was injured in this I-10 collision, contact DC Law Group at (310) 571-8860 for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the fatal I-10 crash happen?
The crash occurred on eastbound Interstate 10 east of Intake Boulevard near Blythe in Riverside County.
When did the collision occur?
The collision was reported at approximately 5:15 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026.
How many people died?
The CHP account cited in the report stated that three construction workers sustained fatal injuries.
Was anyone else injured?
The report stated that the 44-year-old tractor-trailer driver suffered major head and leg injuries and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center. His later condition was not provided in the initial account.
What vehicles and equipment were involved?
The preliminary account described a tractor-trailer, a parked attenuator construction vehicle, an occupied Chevrolet Silverado, and a water truck. Investigators may provide additional details as the review continues.
Did authorities determine who was responsible?
No. The available reporting described a preliminary account and said the investigation was complex and ongoing. A preliminary report is not a final liability determination.
What should an injured person do after a serious work-zone collision?
An injured person should obtain appropriate medical attention, preserve original photographs and video, identify witnesses, keep medical and insurance records, and avoid speculating about fault. A California personal-injury attorney can review the specific facts, available evidence, and applicable deadlines.
Summary
Three construction workers were killed and a tractor-trailer driver suffered major injuries after a multi-vehicle collision on eastbound I-10 east of Intake Boulevard near Blythe on September 25, 2026. The California Highway Patrol reported that a big rig struck work-zone equipment and other vehicles, and the investigation remained ongoing.
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