During a stop on the side of Interstate 215 in Moreno Valley, two California Highway Patrol officers found themselves in a shocking situation when a car that had broken down erupted into flames suddenly, injuring them both and putting a suspected drunk driver in a difficult position with the law.
The incident occurred while the officers were near a 2007 Toyota Camry after it had stalled. Officer Javier Navarro of the CHP described the moment when, out of nowhere, an explosion engulfed the officers in flames.
“An explosion occurred, causing the officers to be engulfed in flames,” Navarro shared.
Thankfully, both officers were taken to Riverside University Medical Center, where they received treatment for their minor to moderate injuries. They are expected to recover fully without lasting effects.
The chaotic scene unfolded around 3 p.m., after the Camry’s driver, allegedly intoxicated, along with a friend, managed to push the car to the right shoulder. At that point, two CHP units arrived to assist.
While the officers conversed with the driver next to the vehicle, the car unexpectedly caught fire. Interestingly, the driver and his friend managed to escape unharmed.
Firefighters from the Riverside County Fire Department arrived quickly and got the flames under control before they could spread to any nearby areas.
The driver, whose name hasn’t been released, was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI, while his companion was not arrested. Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the explosion.
