Two CHP Officers Burned in Freeway Car Explosion

The officers were beside a disabled 2007 Toyota Camry on the northbound side of Interstate 215 when it erupted in flames shortly after 3 p.m. on October 25. The car had been pushed to the right shoulder after breaking down, and two CHP units had arrived to assist. The officers were talking with the driver near the unoccupied sedan when it exploded.

Each officer sustained injuries ranging from mild to moderate and was transported to Riverside University Medical Center. The CHP anticipates a full recovery for both, with no lasting complications. The driver and a friend who had helped push the car escaped injury.

Riverside County firefighters arrived within minutes and put out the fire before it reached nearby vegetation. The driver was booked into Robert Presley Jail on suspicion of driving under the influence. His identity was not immediately released, and his friend faced no arrest. Investigators have yet to determine what caused the blast.