Full Notification

DATE/TIME: May 3, 2015, at approximately 5:00 p.m.

INCIDENT: Suicidal Subject and Freeway Closure

LOCATION: Interstate 15 South Bound North of Fort Irwin Road, Yermo

SUSPECT: 22 year old female resident of Las Vegas, Nevada.


SUMMARY: On Sunday, May 3, 2015, at approximately 5:00 p.m., deputies from the Barstow Station were dispatched to assist the California Highway Patrol (CHP) with traffic control, stemming from a major injury collision on the south bound I-15 just north of Fort Irwin Road in Yermo. The collision closed all lanes of the south bound I-15, prompting traffic to exit at various off-ramps and use side roads. Deputies arrived on scene and assisted the CHP.
While investigating the collision, CHP officers learned a female subject, drove onto south bound I-15 off ramp at Fort Irwin Road, and travelled north into the south bound lanes. The subject hit the right rear side of a semi-tractor trailer traveling south in the far right lane. The semi lost control, hit a passenger van occupied by several persons and overturned, spilling fuel onto the roadway.
The subject was seriously injured in the collision and air lifted to a local trauma center for treatment. All other parties were treated and released at local hospitals. The traffic collision was determined to be a deliberate act, therefore the investigation was handled by the Sheriff’s Department/Barstow Station. Deputy Halterman spoke with multiple parties involved in the collision and rescue personnel. He learned the subject made comments to paramedics which lead Deputy Halterman to believe the subject attempted to commit suicide.
CHP re-opened one lane of the freeway at approximately 8:30 p.m., but remained on scene until removal of the overturned semi and clean up was completed. Southbound I-15 was completely opened on May 4, 2015 at 2:50 a.m.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Deputy James Halterman of the Barstow Sheriff's Station at (760) 256-4838. Callers who wish to remain anonymous are urged to call We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com

Refer: Deputy James Halterman

Station: Barstow Station

Phone No. (760) 256-4838

Case No. 081500606

JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department