3 Killed in SUV Rollover Caused by Separated Tire

August 18, 2009

Blythe – Three people were killed Sunday when a tire separated from a sports utility vehicle causing it to roll over and crash into a freeway median.

At least six people were inside the 2004 GMC Envoy at the time of the crash.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident happened on eastbound Interstate 10 west of Mesa Drive in Blythe at about 12:25 p.m.

Investigators said that the SUV’s right-rear tire separated which caused the driver to hit the brakes and lose control of the vehicle.

The driver, who was identified as Antonio Castroestevan, 58, of El Monte suffered fatal injuries while the left-rear passenger, Linda Gutierez, 31, of Whittier was ejected from the vehicle and killed.

A 10-year-old child who was sitting in the right rear seat was partially ejected and killed as well.

Three other passengers were brought to the hospital for various injuries.