A tragic collision occurred on Highway 371 in Anza when a 2016 Hyundai sedan struck two women riding horses, resulting in the death of 48-year-old Monique Morton and her horses. The other rider, a 34-year-old woman from Temecula, sustained major injuries and remained in serious but stable condition at a trauma center. The crash happened near Bailiff Road around 9 p.m. Sunday, and emergency crews responded promptly, with one victim airlifted to the hospital.

The 70-year-old driver of the sedan was detained for questioning but not arrested, and authorities indicated that alcohol or drugs were not factors in the incident. The horses’ fate—whether they died on impact or were euthanized due to injuries—remained unclear. The highway was partially closed overnight for investigation, and the California Highway Patrol is seeking any witnesses to assist with their ongoing inquiry.