Fire Engine and Sedan Collide on Murrieta Highway, Multiple Injuries Reported

On Thursday afternoon, just after the 4 p.m. rush, a Rivco fire engine found itself in a startling collision with a small sedan on the outskirts of Murrieta. The impact was enough to send both vehicles skidding, and first‑responders say several occupants were injured, some seriously.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fire engine was responding to an earlier call when it entered the intersection at a right‑of‑way that the sedan was already occupying. Witnesses described a sudden, loud thud followed by the screech of brakes and the smell of gasoline. The sedan, a blue 2018 compact, crumpled on the driver’s side while the fire engine suffered damage to its front bumper and right side panel.

Emergency crews pulled the injured parties from both vehicles. Paramedics treated two adults from the sedan for broken ribs and a possible concussion, while a firefighter inside the engine was taken to a nearby hospital with a sprained ankle and bruises. The CHP opened an investigation, gathering dash‑cam footage and interviewing the drivers to determine whether speed, visibility, or a miscommunication played a role.

“We’re still assessing the scene,” said CHP officer Maria Torres, who is leading the inquiry. “Our priority right now is the health of everyone involved, but we’ll also be looking at the sequence of events to see how this could have been avoided.” The department reminded the public that emergency vehicles, even when lights and sirens are flashing, still have to obey traffic laws and proceed with caution.

Traffic on the highway was rerouted for about an hour while investigators worked, causing minor delays for commuters. The road has since been cleared, and the fire station reported that the engine will be back in service after repairs. Community members expressed concern, noting the irony of a vehicle meant to protect safety becoming part of a dangerous accident.