CHP Rescues Family Of 4 From Fiery Crash In Santa Ana
SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — California Highway Patrol officers Monday rescued a family from a burning vehicle that crashed near a freeway off-ramp in Santa Ana.
According to CHP, two officers located a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe that had crashed into a tree around 3:53 a.m. at the exit of the northbound 55 Freeway near 17th Street.
Police explained the car had caught on fire when they arrived.
Leonardo Morales, 22, of Santa Ana, was found lying on the pavement near his 2-year-old boy who was crying and pointing towards the car.
Authorities located the child's mother in the front seat of the vehicle, and a 9-month-old female infant lying face down on the floor of the car.
The mother and infant were rescued from the vehicle, which was fully engulfed in flames, officers added.
Paramedics transported the man and woman to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana for treatment of moderate to major injuries sustained in the crash.
The children were taken to Orange County Children's Hospital. The boy has been listed with moderate injuries, and the infant with major injuries.
During the rescue, one CHP officer sustained minor injuries.
Officials said no car seats were located inside the vehicle.
Morales was subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Any witnesses are urged to contact CHP Santa Ana Officers at (714) 567-6000.
