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From the Petrolia Volunteer Fire Department:

On July 6 at approximately 2:30 a.m., Petrolia Fire Engine 6632, Engine 6646, and Rescue 6674 responded to a vehicle accident alongside Cal Fire Engine 1262, Battalion 1213, Southern Humboldt Technical Rescue, Honeydew Fire 6549, the California Highway Patrol, and City Ambulance.

Upon arrival, crews discovered a vehicle that had gone over the embankment and was submerged in the river. Three victims were located alongside the river. Once access to the river was established, firefighters assessed the scene and immediately began CPR on two of the patients while another crew worked to stabilize the third.

When City Ambulance arrived, crews loaded the surviving patient onto a backboard, and firefighters worked together to carry the patient up the steep embankment to the awaiting ambulance. Tragically, the other two patients were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Incidents like this are a sobering reminder of how unforgiving rural mountain roads can be, especially during the late night and early morning hours. Limited visibility, winding roads, steep embankments, and fatigue can quickly turn a routine drive into a life-threatening situation.

Whether you’re heading home after a long day or traveling through unfamiliar areas, slowing down, staying alert, wearing your seat belt, and never driving while impaired or fatigued can make all the difference.

The level of coordination, professionalism, compassion, and care demonstrated by every agency involved during such a tragic incident was truly remarkable. It is an honor to serve alongside dedicated first responders who work tirelessly under the most difficult circumstances.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident.