Bus Accident Injures 20 Near Running Springs

Running Springs, California – Late Sunday night, a bus transporting a youth group from a church camp flipped over on a winding mountain road near Running Springs, injuring 20 passengers. The incident occurred approximately 70 miles northeast of Los Angeles, and local authorities are currently examining what caused the crash.

The bus was returning from a three-day retreat at Camp Nawakwa in the San Bernardino Mountains, carrying 36 individuals when it lost control on a sharp curve. Witnesses noted the bus swaying violently before it toppled onto its side.

“The bus started to shake, and then it just went over,” recalled Cyntia Ramirez, 21, a community college student on board. She was rescued through a hatch on the roof by a youth leader.

The California Highway Patrol responded to the emergency around 8:50 p.m. Their reports indicated that the vehicle collided with a rock embankment on the right side of the roadway, although the exact reasons remain unclear.

According to the San Bernardino County Fire Department, 26 individuals needed medical assistance at the scene, with three sustaining severe injuries. Ground ambulances transported 20 passengers to local hospitals. Thankfully, there were no reports of fire or hazardous materials involved.

The bus was one of several vehicles carrying a larger group of about 125 people from Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Santa Ana. They were all traveling home when the accident took place.

Youth leader Prisilla Mendoza, 20, recollected waking to screams just prior to the crash and lost consciousness shortly after the overturn. Father José Félix Troncoso, who led the youth retreat, confirmed that some individuals remained hospitalized with injuries such as fractured fingers and at least one head injury.

The picturesque mountain route, characterized by forested cliffs at elevations around 6,100 feet, was briefly closed in both directions for an investigation. Church representatives expressed their appreciation to first responders for their timely assistance in evacuating and treating those injured.

Reflecting on the incident, Ramirez stated, “This was a freak accident.” Authorities are still looking into how the bus lost control on this treacherous stretch of highway.