[Update 6:43 p.m.] Multiple Injuries Reported in Crash on Hwy 101 Near Underpass Road

Reach Air Ambulance stock photo. [Image used with permission from Southern Trinity Area Rescue]

Emergency crews are responding to a serious traffic collision on U.S. Highway 101 near Underpass Road, just south north of Willits, that occurred around 5:52 p.m. this evening. At least one person is reported to be trapped, and multiple patients are being treated at the scene. An air ambulance was requested.

According to first reports on the California Highway Patrol Traffic Incident Information Page, a white Cadillac Escalade lost a wheel and struck an embankment, blocking both southbound lanes. A witness reported seeing someone crawling out of the vehicle.

An off-duty California State Fish and Wildlife warden is on scene assisting until first responders arrive. An air ambulance has been requested. There are at least three patients with moderate injuries, according to reports from the scene.

The southbound lanes are currently blocked.

Please remember that this story is unfolding. Information is being reported as we gather it. However, some of the information coming from witnesses and initial official reports could be wrong. We will do our best to get the facts but, in the case that something is inaccurate, we will update with correct information as soon as we can.

Update 6:14 p.m.: No one is currently being reported as trapped. REACH air ambulance has accepted and said they’ll be on scene by 6:30 p.m.

Update 6:43 p.m.: One-way traffic control is in place. One taken by helicopter to Howard Hospital with possible internal injuries. One taken by ground ambulance to Howard, also.