13 people injured in Santa Clarita after crash involving city bus, big rig

A crash involving a big rig truck, city bus and several other vehicles left 13 people injured in Santa Clarita on Wednesday morning.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department said one person is in critical condition and 12 others suffered unspecified injuries.

The crash took place near Golden Valley Road and Centre Point Parkway around 9:31 a.m.

Witness Mel Buckley said he had just arrived at a nearby gym when the collision happened. 

"I see the bus crash into the sidewalk and behind that truck, and the truck started having smoke," he said. "A few seconds later, a woman was screaming, people running into the bus and the back door wasn't opening. The front door was open and I think he said somebody was injured."

Investigators said it appeared that the semi-truck was going 50-70 mph down Golden Valley Road and was unable to stop. The driver tried to turn onto Centre Pointe Parkway before slamming into the bus. Based on their preliminary investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department does not believe the driver of the semi truck was under the influence. 

Aerial footage of the crash showed several people receiving medical treatment for unknown injuries. Footage also showed a white vehicle pinned under a big rig with severe damage to the front. 

City officials are asking people to avoid the area. Traffic in both directions has been blocked off. Drivers should expect delays and use alternate routes until further notice.