San Diego

A three-car crash that erupted into flames Thursday night on westbound Sea World Drive just east of Ingraham Street killed one motorist who was trapped in his vehicle and injured two others, the San Diego Fire Department said.

A Fire Department spokesman said all three cars were engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived at the scene shortly after 7:30 p.m. The victim, whose identity was unknown, was trapped behind the driver’s seat of a compact car, which was lying on its side.

“We tried to save the victim, but we couldn’t,” the spokesman said.

Injured in the accident and taken to UC San Diego Medical Center were Robert Adams, 47, and Michelle Lelanchon, 27. Adams was treated for facial cuts and Lelanchon was under observation for possible internal injuries. Both were listed in satisfactory condition by hospital officials.