UPDATE 10:10 p.m.: According to Sgt. Tami McCanless of the California Highway Patrol,  Mervin George III, age 17 from Hoopa, was driving a 1995 Jeep Wrangler southbound on Hwy 96 at approximately 5:30 p.m. today when he lost control of the vehicle near mile marker 18.1. McCanless said that George was entering a left curve at approximately 40 miles per hour when the accident occurred. The vehicle, she said, rolled several times and came to rest about 120 feet down the embankment. As a result of the injuries and the severity of the terrain, a rope rescue was needed.

McCanless explained that George was wearing a seat belt and was not injured.  However, she said, the right front passenger, Michael Montgomery, age 18 from Hoopa, received minor injuries to his left arm and shoulder even though he was wearing a seatbelt. He was transported to Mad River Hospital.

McCanless said, the rear passenger, Peter Hunsucker, age 18 from McKinleyville was not wearing a seat belt. He was ejected and received major injuries to his left leg. He was flown to Mercy Hospital in Redding. But, she said, he is now stable.

DUI was not a factor in this collision.

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Original post: According to CHP dispatch, a black jeep crashed on Hwy 96 near Hoopa. The accident was reported around 5:30 p.m. Fire, ambulance, and the California Highway Patrol rushed to the scene.

One person with major injuries and one with minor injuries were discovered over the side of the bank. Due to the severity of the injuries and the steepness of the terrain, emergency personnel were forced to attempt a rope rescue on the injured parties. 

CHP has promised more information later this evening. Meanwhile, this link will show any updates that are posted to the dispatch site.