A serious single-vehicle crash on southbound Interstate 280 in San Mateo County sent two people to the hospital Tuesday evening after their vehicle veered off the roadway, struck an embankment, and burst into flames.
The incident occurred at approximately 6 p.m. near the Edgewood Road exit. Emergency responders arrived to find the vehicle fully engulfed in fire in a wooded area off the highway. Flames had spread beyond the car, igniting nearby brush and raising concerns about a potential vegetation fire.
Fire crews quickly worked to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading further into the surrounding wooded area. Authorities confirmed that the fire was successfully contained to about a quarter-acre, limiting additional damage.
The driver and a passenger were able to escape the burning vehicle. Both sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Officials did not immediately release details about what may have caused the crash.
Traffic in the southbound lanes of Interstate 280 experienced temporary disruptions as emergency personnel secured the area and cleared debris from the scene. Motorists were advised to use caution while traveling through the area during the response and cleanup efforts.
An investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash remains ongoing. Authorities are expected to review roadway conditions, vehicle factors, and other contributing elements to determine the cause.
