CAMP PENDLETON SOUTH, Calif. — Three motorcyclists were killed and at least 5 others were taken to the hospital after an early morning crash along Interstate 5 Thursday north of Oceanside. All southbound lanes were shut down at Las Pulgas near Camp Pendleton on Interstate 5 due to a deadly crash.
The U.S. Navy confirmed to CBS 8 that two people killed in the crash were active duty Navy sailors. The identities of the two Navy Sailors and third person killed in the crash have not been shared publicly.
The collision happened around 3 a.m. Thursday morning and involved multiple vehicles, closing the freeway
CHP told CBS 8 that the driver of a Jeep crashed into a guardrail and was then hit by a passing driver, whose car overturned. Four motorcyclists, who were following closely, collided with the wreckage. CHP says three of the motorcyclists died at the scene.
Two people inside the Jeep are being treated for life-threatening injuries, while the driver and a passenger from the other car were taken to the hospital for minor to moderate injuries.
CHP reported that the closure on I-5 is between Las Pulgas Rd (Exit #62) to 76/Coast Highway (Exit #54) with vehicles backed up to Cristianitos Rd (Exit #72) and beyond.
The multiple-vehicle collision caused major traffic delays. Drivers were asked to avoid the area if possible while CHP conducted their investigation.