Fatal crash on Ramona Expressway near Highway 74 under investigation

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating a deadly single-vehicle crash that occurred early Friday morning on Ramona Expressway near State Route 74.

According to CHP, officers responded to the crash at approximately 2 a.m. on September 18, 2026. The preliminary investigation indicates that an unidentified woman was driving a Volkswagen Golf on Ramona Expressway when, for reasons that remain under investigation, the vehicle collided with a traffic signal light pole.

The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Authorities have not determined whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. The identity of the deceased woman is expected to be released by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Coroner’s Bureau.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who may have information about the crash is asked to contact CHP Officer R. San Nicolas at (951) 846-5300.

No additional details about the circumstances of the crash were immediately available.