Four people died and two others were critically injured early Friday after a vehicle veered off a mountain road near Wrightwood, California, according to authorities.

The single-vehicle crash occurred shortly before 2 a.m. on State Route 2 at Flume Canyon Road, near the eastern border of Angeles National Forest at the Los Angeles-San Bernardino County line. The vehicle, a black 2016 Hyundai Veloster carrying six Wrightwood residents, was traveling eastbound when it left the roadway, overturned down an embankment, and struck a power pole, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported.

Emergency responders from the San Bernardino County Fire Department arrived on scene with multiple units, including ambulances and air ambulances. Rescuers faced difficulties locating all occupants, as five were ejected from the vehicle and one occupant, who was initially wearing a seat belt, had removed it before exiting. Approximately 40 feet of cable were used to aid in the rescue operation, according to the CHP.

Four of the vehicle’s occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining two were transported by air ambulance to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton and admitted in critical condition.

A preliminary investigation by the CHP indicated that none of the victims were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, and alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor. The agency emphasized the importance of seat belt use, noting it is the most effective way to reduce injury and fatalities in traffic collisions.

The CHP also reiterated the dangers and illegality of impaired driving, urging motorists to avoid operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Officials recommended designating sober drivers, using rideshare services, or arranging alternative transportation when consuming alcohol.

The crash remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.