Nearly two dozen injured in overturned bus crash in San Bernardino County
In a harrowing incident that unfolded on a treacherous stretch of Highway 330 in the San Bernardino Mountains, nearly two dozen individuals sustained injuries when a passenger bus carrying 36 people overturned late Sunday night, November 9, 2025. The catastrophic accident, which left three passengers with severe injuries, prompted a massive emergency response and has shut down a vital artery connecting the Inland Empire to mountain communities.
The crash occurred at approximately 8:50 p.m. on Highway 330, specifically near mile marker 38, nestled between the communities of Highland and Running Springs. The San Bernardino County Fire Department was the first to report the incident, dispatching multiple units to what quickly became a complex rescue operation in the dark, mountainous terrain. First responders arrived to a chaotic scene where the bus lay on its side, a testament to the sudden and violent nature of the rollover.
Of the 36 individuals aboard the ill-fated bus, 20 were confirmed to have sustained various degrees of injuries. Three patients, in particular, were described as suffering severe injuries, necessitating immediate and critical medical attention. These individuals, along with 17 others who suffered less severe but still significant injuries, were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The prompt mobilization of paramedics, ambulances, and trauma teams was crucial in managing the immediate aftermath of such a large-scale casualty event. The remaining passengers either sustained minor injuries that did not require hospital transport or were fortunate enough to escape the ordeal completely unharmed, a testament to sheer luck amidst the wreckage.
The immediate priorities for emergency crews upon arrival were to assess the scene for any ongoing hazards, stabilize the overturned vehicle, and begin the painstaking process of triaging and extricating the injured passengers. Firefighters confirmed that, thankfully, there was no fire or any other immediate hazardous materials spill from the bus, which could have significantly complicated the rescue efforts. The fact that the bus was transporting a mix of adults and teenagers added another layer of urgency and emotional complexity to the rescue, as responders worked to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers, regardless of age.
The multi-agency response to the incident underscored the gravity of the situation and the challenging environment in which it occurred. Alongside the San Bernardino County Fire Department, personnel from the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Fire Department, Arrowbear Fire Department, and Running Springs Fire Department all converged on the scene. This coordinated effort was vital, with each agency bringing specialized skills and resources to bear on the unfolding crisis. Firefighters and paramedics worked tirelessly under the glow of emergency lights, navigating the steep embankments and narrow shoulder of the mountain road to reach the injured and safely remove them from the compromised bus. The collaborative spirit among these departments was critical in managing the high number of casualties and ensuring that everyone received appropriate care as quickly as possible.
As the immediate rescue efforts transitioned into the initial phase of investigation, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) took the lead in determining the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicated that the bus was the sole vehicle involved in the incident, ruling out a collision with another vehicle as the direct cause. This fact typically narrows the focus of the investigation to factors such as driver error, mechanical failure of the bus, or environmental conditions. Investigators will meticulously examine the scene, looking for skid marks, debris patterns, and other physical evidence that could shed light on how the bus came to overturn. They will also inspect the bus itself for any signs of mechanical malfunction, such as brake failure, steering issues, or tire blowouts. Furthermore, the bus driver will be a key subject of the investigation, with inquiries into their driving history, hours of service, potential for fatigue or distraction, and whether any substances were involved. Any onboard data recorders, often referred to as "black boxes," will be crucial in reconstructing the moments leading up to the crash, providing valuable information on speed, braking, and steering inputs. The CHP has not yet provided an estimated timetable for when their comprehensive investigation will conclude, emphasizing the thoroughness required for such a serious incident.
Highway 330, while a scenic route and a critical access road to popular mountain resorts and residential areas like Running Springs, Arrowbear, and Big Bear, is also known for its challenging driving conditions. Characterized by steep grades, sharp turns, and sometimes narrow lanes, especially in the upper elevations, the highway demands careful attention from drivers. Inclement weather, including fog, rain, or even ice during colder months, can further exacerbate these conditions, making travel particularly hazardous. The closure of SR-330 in both directions for an indefinite period as the investigation and recovery efforts continue has significantly impacted local traffic. CHP officers urged motorists to seek alternate routes, specifically recommending Highway 18, to circumvent the closure. This disruption, particularly on a Sunday night, affects not only residents but also weekend visitors returning from the mountain communities, adding travel delays and inconvenience to the already somber news of the accident.
The human element of this tragedy extends beyond the physical injuries. Passengers, regardless of their physical condition, will likely carry the psychological trauma of the event. The suddenness of an overturned bus, the screams, the chaos, and the fear for their lives are experiences that can have lasting impacts. Support services, including counseling, will undoubtedly be necessary for many of those involved. For the communities of Highland and Running Springs, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with mountain travel and the dedication of their emergency services. Local residents often grow accustomed to the dangers of their winding roads, but an event of this magnitude inevitably shakes their sense of security.
Bus travel, while generally considered a safe mode of transportation, is not without its risks. Federal and state regulations govern everything from vehicle maintenance schedules and driver qualifications to passenger capacity and safety features. Incidents like this often prompt reviews of these regulations and the operating practices of commercial bus companies. Investigators will undoubtedly look into the bus company’s safety record, maintenance logs, and driver training protocols to ensure all regulations were adhered to. The presence of both adults and teenagers on the bus raises questions about the nature of their trip – perhaps a school excursion, a church group outing, a tour group, or a private charter – each scenario carrying its own set of safety considerations and responsibilities.
As the sun rose on Monday morning, November 10, 2025, the aftermath of the previous night’s crash continued to unfold. While the immediate danger had passed, the long road to recovery for the injured, the thoroughness of the investigation, and the eventual reopening of Highway 330 remained pressing concerns. The community waits for answers regarding the cause of this devastating incident, hoping that lessons learned will prevent future tragedies on the winding roads of the San Bernardino Mountains. The San Bernardino County Fire Department, CBS LA, and other news outlets will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the investigation and the conditions of the injured passengers.
