Monterey off-Ramp back open after semi, SUV crash

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) — The eastbound Interstate 10 off-ramp at Monterey Avenue has reopened after a crash involving a semi-truck and an SUV early Wednesday in Thousand Palms, authorities said.

The collision was reported around 5:17 a.m. on the Monterey Avenue overcrossing at the eastbound I-10 off-ramp, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Investigators say the semi-truck was making a right turn onto southbound Monterey Avenue when it collided with a GMC SUV in the intersection. The impact caused the semi-truck to catch fire, but the flames were quickly extinguished by firefighters.

The driver of the SUV, a man, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center for treatment. The semi-truck driver was not injured.

The off-ramp and southbound lanes on the overcrossing were temporarily closed while crews investigated and cleared the scene.

All lanes have since reopened. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.