Running Springs Church Camp Bus Rollover Injures 20; CHP Investigating

• What We Know About the Running Springs Church Camp Bus Rollover
• Timeline and Location Details
• Official Accounts and the Ongoing Investigation
• Injuries Reported and Emergency Response
• Why Mountain Descents Can Be Hazardous for Buses
• Potential Civil Liability Considerations After a Motorcoach Rollover in California
• Preserving Rights and Evidence After a Bus Crash
• How to Obtain Official Records and Information
• Insurance Issues: Church Groups, Charter Buses, and Medical Billing
• Safety Context and Regulatory Oversight
• Key California Deadlines: Personal Injury and Public Entity Claims
• What Families Commonly Do Next
• Commentary from Gosuits Running Springs, California Personal Injury Attorney
• Why Acting Promptly Matters After a Bus Rollover

What We Know About the Running Springs Church Camp Bus Rollover

A bus carrying teens and young adults returning to Orange County from a church retreat in the San Bernardino Mountains overturned on a winding two-lane mountain road near Running Springs on Sunday night, November 9, 2025. According to information shared by passengers and public safety officials, the bus began shaking and swerving before rocking side to side and ultimately tipping onto its side at a curve. There were 36 people aboard.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded at approximately 8:50 p.m. Initial statements indicate the driver collided with a rock embankment on the right shoulder for reasons that remain under investigation. Twenty-six people were evaluated on scene; 20 were transported by ground ambulance to area hospitals. Three suffered major injuries. Others declined transport. The San Bernardino County Fire Department reported no fire or hazardous material exposure.

The group was part of a youth retreat organized by Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Santa Ana, affiliated with the Diocese of Orange. Participants were returning from Camp Nawakwa near the mountain community of Angelus Oaks. Other church members made the drive as well and arrived safely in vans. The roadway was closed in both directions for the investigation.

Local voices underscored the suddenness and fear of the event. One youth leader described waking to screams. Another passenger recalled being pulled through a roof hatch. A parish priest said some patients remained hospitalized for fractures and at least one head injury. As of the latest public reporting, the crash remains under investigation by CHP.

Timeline and Location Details

Time: Approximately 8:50 p.m., Sunday, November 9, 2025. It was fully dark on the mountain by then, and temperatures can drop quickly at elevation in early November.

Place: A curve on a two-lane highway near Running Springs, about 70 miles northeast of Los Angeles, in the San Bernardino Mountains. Running Springs sits around 6,000 feet in elevation, surrounded by forest and steep drop-offs common along that mountain corridor.

Context: The group had been attending a three-day youth retreat at Camp Nawakwa near Angelus Oaks and was returning to Orange County. The downhill routes off the San Bernardino Mountains can be technical and demanding for heavier vehicles, with tight curves and changing grades.

Official Accounts and the Ongoing Investigation

CHP is the lead investigating agency for traffic collisions on state highways. In its initial statement, CHP reported that while navigating a curve, the bus driver struck the rock embankment on the right shoulder, which led to the bus overturning. Investigations of this nature typically consider speed relative to conditions, mechanical factors (such as brakes or steering components), roadway design and surface conditions, and driver inputs. CHP collision reports generally include measurements, diagrams, and statements gathered from involved parties and witnesses.

It is common for CHP to keep the roadway closed for a period to allow emergency response, safe patient loading, scene mapping, and crash reconstruction. Once CHP completes its report, copies are typically available to involved persons or their representatives through a formal request process. Information about requesting CHP collision reports can be found through the agency’s public portal at chp.ca.gov.

Injuries Reported and Emergency Response

San Bernardino County Fire established a triage area on the highway shoulder and coordinated with ground ambulances to transport the injured. Paramedic photos show patients wearing cervical collars and being evaluated in a controlled area next to the roadway. According to officials, 26 people were treated on-scene; 20 were transported to area hospitals, with three major injuries reported and others with moderate or minor injuries. Some patients were later reported to have fractured fingers and at least one head injury.

In a coordinating region like the San Bernardino Mountains, agencies commonly include San Bernardino County Fire, CHP, and ambulance providers working within county EMS protocols. When multiple patients are involved, responders sort injuries by severity to ensure those with potentially life-threatening conditions are transported first.

Why Mountain Descents Can Be Hazardous for Buses

Mountain corridors in the San Bernardino range, including those near Running Springs, involve tight radius curves, steep grades, rock faces on the uphill side, and drop-offs on the downhill side. For heavier vehicles such as motorcoaches, these features present specific risks. Braking systems can heat up on extended descents, steering adjustments must be precise through back-to-back curves, and any sudden maneuvering can shift weight and reduce stability, particularly if the vehicle is already negotiating a bend. Weather can compound these challenges, but even on dry pavement, the combination of grade, curve, and mass requires meticulous control.

California transportation agencies emphasize seasonal preparation for mountain driving, particularly as autumn turns to winter. While the conditions on the night of this crash have not been publicly tied to weather, drivers in the region are routinely reminded by Caltrans to account for elevation, temperature changes, and the possibility of debris or rockfall on winding roads. For general guidance on mountain and winter driving, Caltrans maintains a statewide resource at dot.ca.gov.

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Potential Civil Liability Considerations After a Motorcoach Rollover in California

When a charter or church bus overturns, several civil law concepts may come into play. The specifics depend on the facts developed by the investigation, vehicle inspections, and witness accounts. Broadly, these are some areas often analyzed in California motorcoach incidents:

• Common carrier duties. In California, carriers of persons for reward have a heightened duty to use the utmost care and diligence for their passengers’ safe carriage. This principle is reflected in state law. See California Civil Code provisions addressing carriers of persons at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. Whether the operator here meets the statutory definition will depend on the nature of the bus arrangement, but courts often scrutinize passenger transportation providers under elevated standards.
• Driver conduct and training. Safe operation on steep grades requires training on speed management, engine braking, and curve negotiation. Evidence may include logs, training records, and route planning documents.
• Vehicle maintenance and mechanical condition. Brakes, tires, steering, and suspension systems are critical on mountain descents. Inspection records, pre-trip checklists, and maintenance logs are typically reviewed. Federal regulations require systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance for passenger carriers, overseen by FMCSA. See passenger carrier safety resources at fmcsa.dot.gov.
• Company policies and oversight. Charter operators and entities arranging transportation should have safety policies consistent with state and federal regulations. The California Public Utilities Commission regulates charter-party carriers of passengers operating in the state. See CPUC information on charter carriers at cpuc.ca.gov.
• Roadway conditions and public entity responsibilities. In some cases, roadway design, signage, or maintenance can be factors. Claims against public entities in California carry unique notice requirements and shorter timelines under the Government Claims Act. See California Government Code procedures for claims against public entities at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
• Third-party involvement. If another vehicle’s actions contributed (for instance, a sudden cut-off leading to evasive steering), that may also be relevant. At this time, CHP has not indicated involvement of other vehicles, and the cause remains under investigation.

It’s too early to draw conclusions. However, the law affords injured passengers a pathway to pursue accountability if negligence is shown, whether that involves the driver, the operating company, maintenance contractors, or, in certain circumstances, public entities responsible for the roadway.

Preserving Rights and Evidence After a Bus Crash

After a serious incident like this one above Running Springs, it’s common for multiple insurance companies and agencies to be involved. Preserving evidence early is crucial for understanding what happened. Families and group organizers often consider the following steps:

• Document injuries and treatment. Keep copies of discharge summaries, imaging, and follow-up instructions. Photograph visible injuries over time.
• Collect names and contact information. Witnesses, group chaperones, and other passengers can help fill in the timeline.
• Secure photographs and video. Scene photos, vehicle interior views, and personal cellphone videos can be important. Preserve the original files rather than edited versions.
• Track out-of-pocket costs. Save receipts for medications, mobility devices, transportation to appointments, and related expenses.
• Request the official collision report. CHP collision reports contain diagrams and findings that inform civil claims. The request portal is available at chp.ca.gov.
• Consider a written preservation request. A timely letter asking the involved transportation company to retain the vehicle, electronic control module data, driver logs, and maintenance records can prevent loss of critical information. In complex crashes, preservation letters are often prepared and sent promptly.
• Speak with a qualified attorney before talking to insurers. Statements to insurance adjusters can be used later and sometimes taken out of context. It is generally prudent to consult an attorney first to understand rights and obligations.

How to Obtain Official Records and Information

CHP Collision Report

CHP collision reports are typically available to involved persons, their legal representatives, and certain insurers once the report is approved. Requests can be made online or by contacting the area office handling the investigation. General information and the online request route are provided at chp.ca.gov. If you’re unsure which office is handling the case, the CHP office locator can help identify local contacts within the Inland Division via chp.ca.gov.

Autopsy or Coroner Records

This incident, as reported, involved injuries but no fatalities. In cases where a collision results in a death in San Bernardino County, the Sheriff-Coroner’s Office manages investigative and autopsy records. Information about the Coroner Division and how records are handled is available through the Sheriff’s official site at sheriff.sbcounty.gov. Procedures can differ based on next-of-kin status and the type of record requested.

Roadway and Maintenance Information

For information related to roadway conditions, closures, and maintenance in the San Bernardino Mountains, Caltrans District 8 provides public updates and travel resources. General travel safety pages, including winter driving tips and chain controls, are available at dot.ca.gov. Specific maintenance records and design documents may require formal public records requests.

Insurance Issues: Church Groups, Charter Buses, and Medical Billing

Transportation for church retreats is often arranged through a charter bus company or a contracted carrier. Multiple layers of insurance can be involved, including the bus operator’s liability insurance, possible excess or umbrella policies, and, in some situations, coverage associated with the organizing entity. Injured passengers typically have claims directed at the at-fault party’s insurer; however, determining who is responsible requires careful review.

If injuries are significant, medical billing can become complicated. Hospital liens, health insurance subrogation, and coordination of benefits can impact how and when bills are paid. A few practical notes:

• Consult an attorney before speaking with insurers. Adjusters may seek recorded statements quickly. What’s said can be used to shape future decisions. It’s usually best to get legal guidance first.
• Don’t assume medical bills will be automatically covered. Even when liability seems clear, carriers may dispute fault or the extent of injuries. Keep copies of all bills and explanation of benefits.
• Consider MedPay or similar coverages. Some personal auto or travel policies include limited no-fault medical payments coverage. Review policy language carefully.
• Understand potential claims against multiple parties. In a bus rollover, avenues can include negligent operation, maintenance lapses, and in some cases, claims linked to roadway design or signage. Each has different proof requirements and, if a public entity is involved, strict notice deadlines.

Safety Context and Regulatory Oversight

Motorcoach safety is overseen at multiple levels. Understanding this framework can help families make sense of the many agencies mentioned after a crash.

• Federal safety oversight. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate passenger carriers, including driver qualifications, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance. FMCSA’s passenger carrier safety resources describe required safety management practices and inspection regimes at fmcsa.dot.gov.
• California charter-party carriers. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) licenses charter-party carriers of passengers operating within the state, addressing insurance, driver background checks, and operating authority. More on CPUC’s role is at cpuc.ca.gov.
• Roadway operations and travel safety. Caltrans manages state highways, including mountain corridors like those near Running Springs. Seasonal guidance and chain control information are available via dot.ca.gov.
• Crash data and prevention. Federal analyses of bus and large passenger vehicle crashes are published by transportation safety agencies. While bus occupant fatalities represent a small portion of national roadway deaths, passenger bus crashes can produce multiple injuries in a single event due to vehicle occupancy. For national traffic safety publications, see NHTSA’s resources at nhtsa.gov.
• Investigation techniques. In serious motorcoach crashes, investigators may review electronic data, braking systems, tires, and driver control inputs. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) publishes safety recommendations on motorcoach crashworthiness and occupant protection. General NTSB materials are accessible at ntsb.gov.

These frameworks underscore why timely evidence preservation and thorough investigation matter. A single cause isn’t always apparent on day one; multiple contributing factors are common in rollover events on steep, curving descents.

Key California Deadlines: Personal Injury and Public Entity Claims

California law sets time limits for bringing civil actions. Understanding the general timelines helps families plan next steps:

• Personal injury and wrongful death. California’s statute of limitations for most personal injury and wrongful death actions is generally two years from the date of injury or death. The California Code of Civil Procedure provides the governing timelines; see the codes at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
• Claims against public entities. If a claim may involve a public entity (for example, a roadway design or maintenance theory against a state or local agency), the California Government Claims Act typically requires a written claim to the entity within six months of the incident for personal injury cases. See Government Code procedures at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. Missing this notice deadline can bar certain claims.

These are general rules with exceptions, and determining which deadlines apply depends on the facts and parties involved. Early evaluation helps ensure the right filings occur on time.

What Families Commonly Do Next

After a community incident like this one, people in Santa Ana, Garden Grove, and across North and South County often mobilize quickly to support those recovering. While every situation is unique, the following steps are commonly helpful:

• Prioritize follow-up medical care. Mountain rollover injuries can include concussions, spinal strain, and fractures that evolve over days. Keep appointments, and ask providers to document symptoms thoroughly.
• Centralize information. Create a shared folder for medical records, bills, time-off notes from employers or schools, and any correspondence from insurers.
• Coordinate with the organizing institution. For church-organized travel, internal incident records, bus contracts, and communications may exist. Identify the point of contact through the parish or diocesan office.
• Request the CHP report once available. Use the CHP portal at chp.ca.gov and note the date, time, and location near Running Springs.
• Avoid recorded statements before legal consultation. It’s typical for multiple insurers to reach out. Speaking first with an attorney helps avoid missteps. What’s said to adjusters can be used later.
• Consider transportation records preservation. Ensure the bus operator and any maintenance vendors receive a written request to preserve the vehicle, onboard data, and records.
• Note public entity claim deadlines if roadway factors are suspected. If signage, shoulder width, or embankment hazards may be involved, calendar the six-month claim notice window under the Government Claims Act. The codes are available at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

Local context matters here. Families in Santa Ana may be coordinating care through hospitals in San Bernardino and the Inland Empire while also managing school and work in Orange County. Planning transportation and follow-ups across county lines adds complexity that’s normal after mountain crashes.

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Commentary from Gosuits Running Springs, California Personal Injury Attorney

Our hearts are with the teens, young adults, volunteers, and families affected by the church bus rollover near Running Springs. A return from a spiritual weekend shouldn’t end in fear and injury. The information shared here is for educational purposes to help the community understand what typically happens after an incident like this and the practical steps people often take next.

Based on what’s been reported so far, several areas deserve careful attention: the bus’s mechanical condition, the driver’s inputs and training for mountain descents, and the roadway environment at that curve. It’s promising that responders reported no fire or hazmat exposure, and it’s a relief that crews stabilized and transported patients quickly. Still, even “minor” injuries can linger, and the sudden trauma of an overturning coach is hard on the body and mind. A thorough, methodical investigation is essential before anyone labels this a “freak accident.”

From years of handling transportation injury cases, we’ve seen how insurance companies and corporate stakeholders move fast after a crash. Adjusters may appear supportive but commonly record statements early, ask leading questions, and press for quick medical authorizations. These tactics can lock people into narratives that don’t account for delayed symptoms or can undercut future claims. It’s also common for competing insurers to point fingers at each other, leaving families caught in the middle. Knowing what to say, and when, matters; so does preserving the records and data that tell the full story.

A free consultation with a seasoned, skilled attorney is an important safeguard. It gives people space to ask questions, understand their rights, and map out a plan before making statements to insurers. That early guidance can prevent avoidable mistakes and ensure time-sensitive steps are taken, especially if a public entity claim might be implicated by roadway conditions.

Why Acting Promptly Matters After a Bus Rollover

What action to take

• Obtain and organize key records. Gather medical documentation, out-of-pocket expense receipts, names of treating providers, and any witness contact details. Request the CHP collision report once it’s released through the official portal.
• Secure evidence and send preservation notices. Ensure the transportation company is asked in writing to preserve the vehicle, electronic data, driver logs, and maintenance records. Maintain copies of all correspondence.
• Consult an attorney before speaking with insurers. Prior to giving any recorded statements, schedule a no-cost consultation to understand rights and risks. Statements made to insurance adjusters can be used against the speaker later.
• Calendar legal deadlines. Note the general two-year statute for personal injury and the shorter, six-month notice deadline if a public entity claim is possible. Build in reminders well ahead of expiration dates.
• Create a recovery plan. Coordinate follow-up care, physical therapy, and transportation, especially when treating across county lines between San Bernardino and Orange County.

Why now

• Evidence is time-sensitive. Vehicle data can be overwritten, vehicles repaired or sold, and physical evidence lost. Early preservation increases the chance of a complete investigation.
• Memories fade. Witness recollections are sharpest in the weeks after an event. Prompt outreach helps secure accurate statements.
• Deadlines are strict. Public entity notices have short timelines in California. Missing them can foreclose important legal avenues.
• Medical documentation evolves. Establishing a clear treatment timeline from day one helps connect injuries to the crash and avoids gaps insurers may challenge.
• Insurance engagement begins immediately. Adjusters often call within days. Being prepared with guidance prevents inadvertent disclosures and protects future options.

Acting with a plan brings order to a chaotic situation. It ensures the right information is gathered, preserved, and used correctly, supporting health, recovery, and any claims process that follows.

Local and Government Resources Cited

• California Highway Patrol: Collision Report Request
• California Highway Patrol: Office Locator
• Caltrans: Winter Driving and Mountain Travel Guidance
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: Passenger Carrier Safety
• California Public Utilities Commission: Charter-Party Carrier Oversight
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Traffic Safety Resources
• National Transportation Safety Board: Safety Recommendations and Reports
• San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner: Coroner Division Information
• California Legislative Information: Civil Code, Government Code, and Code of Civil Procedure