SAN DIEGO, CA — A tragic morning commute turned into a scene of investigation and heavy delays on Thursday after a fatal collision involving a motorcycle and an SUV forced the full closure of northbound Interstate 805.
The Incident
The crash occurred shortly before 5:00 a.m. on the I-805 northbound, specifically in the area north of Friars Road and south of Murray Ridge Road. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), preliminary reports suggest the motorcyclist was traveling at a high rate of speed before the impact.
Investigators later detailed that the rider, operating a white CFMOTO 450SS, rear-ended a Ford Explorer for reasons that are still being determined. The force of the collision ejected the rider onto the roadway. Despite the rapid response of emergency services, the motorcyclist sustained major injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Traffic Impact and Commute Delays
The collision triggered a Sig Alert, resulting in the temporary closure of all northbound lanes. The fallout from the closure caused “extreme congestion” stretching back to El Cajon Boulevard.
- 5:55 a.m.: Caltrans confirmed the two right lanes were reopened to ease the bottleneck.
- 8:15 a.m.: Authorities finished the initial on-scene investigation and debris cleanup, reopening all lanes to regular traffic.
During the height of the closure, CHP advised motorists to seek alternative routes through Mission Valley to avoid the gridlock.
Ongoing Investigation
The CHP San Diego Area Office is leading the investigation into the exact cause of the crash. While speed is being considered a factor, officials noted it is not yet known if driving under the influence (DUI) played a role in the incident.
Public Assistance Requested: Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact investigators at 858-293-6000.
