By all estimations of first responders, the three motorists involved in a horrific crash in the 800 block of Lathrop Road at the Tidewater Bike Path Wednesday evening about 7:15 would normally have resulted in major injuries — or even death — as well as fire from the smashed fuel tanks.

Two of the vehicles had been eastbound on Lathrop Road. A 1990s sedan reportedly slowed for a stopped vehicle at the Tidewater crosswalk and was rear-ended by the driver of a 2016 Kia Sedona that reportedly spun the Mazda sedan around, glanced off into the westbound lanes and struck the 2014 Jeep head on — all three reportedly totaled in the crash.

Ambulance and fire units were dispatched to the scene, and a second ambulance was also called out but the medics were not needed, officers noted.  The fire engines were used to block the roadway, protecting the scene from oncoming traffic and the firefighters cleaned the roadway of debris.  

Traffic backed up on Lathrop Road in both directions and was closed for about an hour until tow trucks arrived. There were no visible skid marks on the scene, officers noted.

To contact Glenn Kahl, email gkahl@mantecabulletin.com.