OAK HILLS, CA — Authorities have identified the young woman who lost her life in a devastating single-vehicle crash on the 15 Freeway in Oak Hills over the weekend. The victim, 20-year-old Emily Pulsifer of Santa Ana, was fatally injured in the accident that occurred early Saturday morning, leaving her family, friends, and community in mourning.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office, the crash took place at approximately 12:30 a.m. on the northbound lanes of the freeway, just south of Oak Hill Road. Pulsifer was driving a 2008 Mazda 3 when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle veered off the right shoulder of the road. The car became airborne and crashed into the lot of Desert Valley Towing, officials reported.
Tragically, Pulsifer was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected from the vehicle upon impact. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but due to the severity of her injuries, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators are working to determine what caused Pulsifer to lose control of her vehicle. While there is no evidence that alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash, officials are examining other potential factors, including speed, road conditions, and possible driver fatigue.
The loss of Emily Pulsifer has deeply affected her loved ones and the broader community. In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help her family with funeral expenses. By Tuesday afternoon, the fundraiser had garnered over $11,000 in donations, reflecting the outpouring of support from those who knew and cared for her.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. The CHP’s San Bernardino Office can be reached at (909) 383-4247 for those who can provide details that may assist the investigation.
As officials continue to piece together the events leading to the crash, Pulsifer’s family and friends are left to grieve the untimely loss of a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of seat belt use and safe driving practices to prevent such devastating outcomes on the road.