Victim is hospitalized in critical condition after a wreck in Desert Hot Springs

Passers-by pulled a victim from a burning vehicle after a collision in Desert Hot Springs Tuesday night, authorities said.

The two-vehicle crash occurred at the intersection of Mountain View Drive and Dillon Road around 11:30 p.m., according to CHP.

Robert Rodriguez, 53, was seriously injured in the crash and was taken to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center by helicopter.

CHP said 45-year-old Felipe Echeverria of Desert Hot Springs was driving northbound on Mountain View Road, and Rodriguez, from Covina, was driving southbound on Mountain View Road.

Echeverria unsafely passed another vehicle and ended up hitting the front of Rodriguez’ truck. Echeverria was only slightly injured in the crash and was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center, according to CHP.

Alcohol and drugs don’t appear to be factors in the crash, officers said.

Mountain View Road was closed for about 30 minutes to bring in Mercy Air to transport Rodriguez to the hospital.

CHP said it’s very important for drivers to make sure there’s enough distance to overtake another vehicle while traveling in the same direction.