One Killed in Multi-Vehicle Crash on SR-163 in San Diego
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 3, 2025) — A fatal multi-vehicle crash happened on northbound State Route 163 near the Interstate 8 interchange Thursday morning in San Diego.
A 78-year-old San Diego man is dead, and others were temporarily stranded in the middle of the freeway, authorities confirmed.
The three-vehicle collision occurred just before 8:50 a.m. on July 3rd near the Mission Valley area, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Initial reports indicated that two vehicles were involved, but the incident later escalated to a four-vehicle crash, with at least one person pinned inside a vehicle.
A Toyota Prius was reported to be blocking the right lane of SR-163 northbound. CHP logs show that the crash caused significant traffic disruption, with only the right lane open as emergency personnel worked to clear debris and assist those involved.
Emergency responders requested a tow for the Prius, and efforts were made to remove debris from the highway. A rotation tow company, USA Tow, was contacted as part of the response.
The elderly man who died was riding in a sedan, and he was confirmed dead at the scene, although authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity. It remains unclear how many others were injured.
CHP officers noted that bystanders were seen standing in the middle of the freeway shortly after the crash, adding to the chaotic scene. By 10:15 a.m., the No. 1 lane had been reopened as crews continued to investigate and clear the area.
The crash remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol, and additional details are expected as officials confirm the sequence of events.
Motorists traveling through the area Thursday morning experienced major delays and were urged to seek alternate routes.
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