By Crash News Writer 
Blythe, CA (September 27, 2026) – Three construction workers were killed and a truck driver was seriously injured in a fiery multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 early Friday morning.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash happened at approximately 5:17 a.m. on September 25 on eastbound Interstate 10, about 800 feet west of South Intake Boulevard. The collision involved a big rig, water truck, Chevrolet Silverado, and parked attenuator construction vehicle.
Authorities identified the workers who died as 39-year-old Francisco Morales Mendoza of Tonopah, Arizona, 50-year-old Alfonso Vega Torres of Coachella, and 27-year-old Christopher Benavidez Guatemala of Coachella. All three were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said the big rig was driven by a 44-year-old Redlands man. The truck reportedly struck the parked attenuator vehicle and an unoccupied Chevrolet Silverado before colliding with the water truck. The big rig overturned and caught fire.
The truck driver suffered serious head and leg injuries and was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center. Investigators said drugs and alcohol are not believed to have contributed to the crash. The cause remains under investigation.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
Fatal crashes involving commercial trucks and highway work zones can involve several layers of investigation. Evidence may include truck inspection and maintenance records, driver logs, electronic vehicle data, work-zone plans, photographs, surveillance footage, and witness statements. Families affected by a deadly collision can also review car accident laws in California to learn more about rules that may affect a claim.
After a serious car accident near Blythe, families should consider keeping copies of the car accident report, medical and funeral records, insurance correspondence, and documents related to financial losses. Obtaining the car accident report can also provide important information about the agencies involved in the investigation.
Someone searching for a car accident near me may not know whether a trucking company, contractor, driver, or another party could potentially be responsible. After a car accident near Blythe involving a commercial vehicle, an attorney can investigate available evidence and determine which insurance policies may apply. Those searching for a car accident near me should also be aware that important evidence may not remain available indefinitely.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on information released by authorities during the early stages of the investigation. Findings about how or why the collision occurred may change as investigators examine additional evidence.
The three construction workers who died have been identified as Francisco Morales Mendoza, Alfonso Vega Torres, and Christopher Benavidez Guatemala. Authorities have stated that drugs and alcohol are not believed to have contributed to the collision. The cause of the crash has not been determined.
Families looking for more information after a serious or fatal collision can review our frequently asked questions in California and accident resources in California.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Information is based on public reports available at the time of publication and may change as the investigation progresses. Readers should seek legal counsel for advice about their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this article. Learn more by reviewing our disclaimer.
Families who have lost a loved one in a commercial truck or work-zone crash should consider speaking with a California personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss their rights and possible legal options.