PHOTOS: SUV crashes off bridge in Long Beach

The SUV, traveling north on the 710 Freeway, plunged off the 7th Street Bridge as it was exiting 6th Street about 7:30 a.m., smashing through the guardrail and falling into the river below, said Sgt. Dina Zapalski of the Long Beach Police Department. The driver’s condition was unknown. Officials had said three people were pulled from the river, but it turned out to be only one.  (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

The SUV that crashed through a guardrail on the 7th Street Bridge is pulled out of the Los Angeles River. At least 10 divers had been in and out of the river, searching for any possible passengers.  (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Investigators and rescue personnel under the 7th Street Bridge. “It is zero visibility with strong currents, and silt is gathering on the vehicle even as divers search for victims,” Long Beach Fire Battalion Chief Frank Hayes said.  (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Scores of people gather on the bike trail along the river to watch investigators and rescue personnel working at the accident scene. Authorities contacted the SUV’s owner, described as the woman’s relative, who indicated she was probably the vehicle’s only occupant, Battalion Chief Frank Hayes said.  (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)