(KGTV) - A San Diego woman was killed and two others were injured after their car crashed off Interstate 10 on their way to the Coachella music festival in Indio.
The California Highway Patrol said the crash occurred Thursday morning at about 4:15 a.m. on eastbound I-10 near Hargrave Street in Banning, about 40 miles from Indio, where the event is being held.
CHP officials said 21-year-old Cesar Hernandezozuna was driving a BMW -- with a 16-year-old female passenger in the front seat and an 18-year-old Ginevra Gallone-Latte in the backseat -- at a high rate of speed when he drifted onto the dirt shoulder. He lost control of the car as he tried to get back onto the freeway lanes, but the BMW “went over the south embankment and collided with two trees.”
According to CHP officials, the crash “severed the vehicle into two pieces” and it caused the ejection of Gallone-Latte.
Gallone-Latte was declared dead at the scene, CHP officials said. She was not immediately identified.
The 16-year-old girl was taken to the hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. Hernandezozuna suffered a facial injury, according to the CHP.
The crash remains under investigation, and CHP officials said while alcohol was in the car, alcohol and/or drugs have been ruled out as contributing factors in the wreck. The BMW was also filled with food and camping gear for the trio’s Coachella trip.
CHP officials confirmed the girl and Hernandezozuna were from San Diego, in addition to Gallone-Latte.
The girl and Gallone-Latte had attended La Jolla High School.
“The La Jolla High School family is saddened by the loss of one of its former students. Our condolences go out to the student’s family and friends during this difficult time, and we wish the best for the other individuals involved as they recover. Counselors have been on campus to provide support to students and staff, and will be available indefinitely to assist anyone in need. The La Jolla High community is strong and we will support one another during this time," said Principal Chuck Podhorsky.
Counselors were available for students on campus Friday, according to the San Diego Unified School District.
