Multiple Children Reported in Van That Rolled Over in Northern Mendocino Shutting Down Southbound 101

A van with multiple children in it rolled over about 8:25 p.m. and briefly shut down southbound Highway 101 roughly a half mile south of the Highway 162 junction between Laytonville and Willits, according to scanner traffic.

According to the California Highway Patrol Traffic Incident Information Page, initial reports described a van overturned in the southbound lanes, with the vehicle partially blocking both lanes. All southbound traffic was stopped as responders arrived.

CHP later reported the Honda Pilot, was on its roof and had sustained major rollover damage. Scanner traffic said five occupants were in the van, including multiple children.

Several agencies responded, including CHP units with Caltrans en route to assist with traffic control. Three advanced life support ambulances were initially dispatched, and a pre-alert was issued to Howard Memorial Hospital. However, the air ambulances were not needed

Scanner reports later stated all occupants were “code 4,” meaning no life-threatening injuries. Radio traffic described the injuries as minor, with one patient transported to the hospital. Additional ambulances were canceled.

By 8:50 the roadway was reopened. Traffic is still moving slowly through the area as of 9:08 p.m.

Please remember that information gathered from initial reports is subject to updates as more facts become available.