At 12:02 AM, on Sunday October 6, 2024, A wrong-way crash early Sunday morning resulted in injuries to five people, including two young children, and left a woman trapped in her vehicle.
Witnesses reported seeing a silver 2004 Toyota Camry enter the southbound lanes of the SB-73 Freeway from the Campus Drive off-ramp, driving in the wrong direction. Moments later, the Toyota collided head-on with a grey 2012 Lincoln MKZ.
The driver of the Toyota, a 32-year-old woman, became trapped in the wreckage and was extricated by firefighters using the Jaw s of Life. She was transported to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. Her condition is currently unknown.
Two children inside the Toyota were pulled from the vehicle by bystanders and transported to local hospitals. A 2- to 3-year-old boy sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mission Hospital. An 8-year-old boy, who sustained major injuries, was taken to OC Global Medical Center.
The two occupants of the Lincoln, an 18-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man, were also transported to OC Global Medical Center. Their conditions have not been released.
Authorities suspect the driver of the Toyota may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The investigation is ongoing.
The southbound lanes of the SR-73 Freeway were closed for several hours while emergency crews worked at the scene.
