A tragic traffic accident early Sunday morning on the Riverside (91) Freeway claimed the life of 25-year-old Abel Quintero of Lake Elsinore. The incident, which occurred at 5:35 a.m. near the Green River Road off-ramp, involved a wrong-way driver and at least five other vehicles, including a big rig.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a black Ford F-150 pickup truck was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of the freeway, causing a catastrophic chain of collisions. The impact resulted in the death of Quintero, who was confirmed as the fatality at the scene. The CHP later indicated that a coroner’s representative arrived around 6:22 a.m., likely to handle the situation involving the fatality.
The crash prompted immediate lane closures, with all westbound lanes of the freeway being blocked by 5:43 a.m. A SigAlert was issued shortly after at 5:56 a.m., halting traffic for over two hours as emergency responders worked to clear the wreckage.
Quintero, who was traveling in one of the vehicles struck by the wrong-way truck, was pronounced dead at the scene. Meanwhile, the driver of the big rig involved in the crash was transported to Corona Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.
Local authorities have not released further details regarding the cause of the crash or the identity of the wrong-way driver. Investigations are ongoing, and CHP officials continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.
The loss of Abel Quintero has left a significant impact on his family, friends, and the Lake Elsinore community. His loved ones are mourning the untimely passing of a young man known for his kind spirit and positive presence in the lives of those who knew him.
Funeral arrangements and further details regarding Quintero’s memorial service have not been publicly released as of yet.
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