BANNING, Calif. — June 5, 2025 — A rollover crash on Interstate 10 early Tuesday morning claimed the life of a 75-year-old Arizona man and left a woman hospitalized with serious injuries. Authorities say the incident took place just east of Hargrave Street near the Banning Municipal Airport. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that George Letts of Oro Valley, Arizona, was the front-seat passenger in a Subaru Outback when the driver lost control of the vehicle.
The SUV veered off the eastbound side of the freeway around 6 a.m., went onto the shoulder, and rolled down an embankment before coming to rest on its roof. CHP Officer Jonathan Torres said the crash also damaged a power pole along the embankment, intensifying the impact of the accident. Emergency responders from the Riverside County Fire Department arrived at the scene within 15 minutes. Letts was pronounced dead at the location by paramedics due to his extensive injuries.
The female driver, who has not been publicly identified, was seriously injured but survived the crash. She was extricated from the overturned vehicle and transported to a nearby trauma center. As of Thursday, her condition was listed as serious, but no further updates had been provided.
Despite the severity of the crash, CHP confirmed that traffic flow along Interstate 10 was not disrupted, and no lanes were closed following the accident. The scene was cleared without incident as investigators began piecing together what led to the vehicle’s loss of control.
CHP officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash and have not yet determined whether speed, mechanical failure, or another factor was involved. They are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information to contact the San Gorgonio Pass CHP office at 951-846-5300.
As the investigation continues, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of freeway travel. Letts’ family is mourning the sudden loss, while the driver faces a long road to recovery. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant, particularly on long drives and unfamiliar roads.
