MEDIA SILENCE After a Horse Trailer Smuggling 18 Illegal Immigrants Crashes in California

A horse trailer secretly shuttling about 18 ILLEGAL immigrants through Campo on Interstate 8 overturned Saturday, injuring several, authorities said.



The crash occurred in the westbound freeway lanes west of Crestwood Road about 11:50 a.m.



A woman who was driving behind the Ford F-250 in the fast lane told investigators that the two-axle, four-horse trailer being hauled by the pickup began to fishtail, according to the California Highway Patrol. The pickup driver was unable to maintain control and drifted off the freeway. The trailer then separated from the truck and tipped onto its right side, said CHP Officer Travis Garrow.



Several people scrambled from the trailer and many ran away. No horses were inside.



CHP called the Border Patrol, and after a search of the area authorities were able to round up most, if not all, involved, said Border Patrol Agent Eduardo Olmos. CHP and Cal Fire reported 18 individuals, while Border Patrol reported 19; the reason for the discrepancy was unclear.



Border Patrol said the driver had not yet been identified and it was unclear if he or she was in custody.



Two women were transported by air ambulance and four men by ground ambulance to hospitals. Others were treated at the scene and arrested. The injuries were described as minor to moderate.



Olmos said it was not yet known where the people made illegal entry into the United States. A breakdown of their nationalities was not immediately available.