Update: CHP officer injured after being struck near Yosemite. Snow closes Highway 41

Jim Guy
·1 min read
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5:55 p.m.: The highway has been reopened, CHP says.

A California Highway Patrol officer was injured and Highway 41 near Yosemite National Park was shut down Sunday on an icy portion of the roadway close to Tenaya Lodge.

CHP Sgt. Vince Villegas said the officer sustained minor to moderate injuries in the incident and was airlifted to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno.

Villegas said the collision involving the officer happened about 11 a.m. on 41 after new snow covered an icy portion of the roadway, causing several cars to spin out. The officer was standing outside one vehicle stuck on the roadway talking to the driver when a tow truck pulled up. The truck began to slide on the ice, and pinned the officer between the two vehicles. He was freed, and taken to Chuckchansi casino near Coarsegold and then flown to the hospital.

A tour bus also became stuck on the treacherous roadway, and several other cars were trapped. Snowplows were clearing the highway and it was expected to reopen later Sunday evening.