Two Seriously Injured in Vehicle Fire on Highway 41 in Shandon; Road Closed

Two people sustained moderate to major injuries in a vehicle fire on Highway 41 Friday afternoon, prompting a full highway closure and an emergency helicopter transport.

According to the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department, crews were dispatched at approximately 12:45 PM to reports of a vehicle fire on Highway 41 East at Olive Ranch, near the transition to Highway 46 East.

Due to the severity of the injuries, a helicopter was landed directly on the highway to transport the two patients to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The SLO County Sheriff’s Office, which is on scene assisting with what it described as a “major traffic collision,” confirmed the location is just south of the Kern County line.

As of early afternoon, Highway 41 remains closed in both directions while firefighters work to extinguish the blaze and law enforcement manages the scene.

Officials are urging the public to avoid the area. Drivers should expect significant delays and are strongly encouraged to use alternate routes. Both agencies advise anyone near the scene to slow down, remain alert, and follow all directions from emergency personnel.