(Los Angeles, CA) A pregnant woman and her unborn child were among multiple people killed Thursday afternoon, February 19, when a speeding vehicle ran a red light and triggered a fiery chain reaction in a Slauson Avenue crash.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 1:30 p.m. when a gray Mercedes traveling southbound on La Brea Avenue entered the intersection at Slauson Avenue at a high rate of speed. Witnesses reported the driver ran a red light before striking several vehicles. The impact sparked an intense fire that quickly engulfed multiple cars near a gas station.
First responders arrived within minutes and found several vehicles burning, with occupants trapped inside. Firefighters worked to free victims using hydraulic rescue tools. Authorities initially reported multiple fatalities at the scene, and the death toll rose as investigators searched the damaged vehicles.
The California Highway Patrol confirmed that a pregnant woman and her unborn child were among those who died. Several other victims were transported to nearby hospitals, including at least one patient taken to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center for critical care. Officials did not immediately release the names of those killed or injured.
CHP spokesperson Franco Pepi said investigators are reviewing traffic camera footage and witness video to determine speed and the exact sequence of events. Officers established a perimeter to secure evidence while fire crews extinguished fuel-fed flames and cleared the roadway. The cause of the crash remained under active investigation.
Analysis on the Slauson Avenue Crash
When a high-speed, multi-vehicle collision results in multiple fatalities, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on traffic signal compliance, speed, and reckless driving behavior.
Because witnesses reported that the Mercedes entered the intersection against a red light, investigators may examine the Failure to Obey Traffic Signals Law. This law requires drivers to stop at a steady red signal and proceed only when legally permitted. Signal timing data and video footage often play a central role in evaluating such incidents.
Since authorities indicated the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed, officials may also consider the Basic Speed Law. This law requires motorists to drive at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Excessive speed at busy intersections can increase both impact force and the likelihood of secondary fires.
Investigators could further review the Reckless Driving Law if evidence suggests willful disregard for safety. This statute prohibits driving in a manner that endangers people or property. These combined statutes help guide CHP’s evaluation of the Slauson Avenue crash as evidence continues to be analyzed.
Help for the Family
If you are related to one of the victims or are supporting loved ones affected by this crash, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request official CHP and medical examiner reports when they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional to better understand your options following a fatal multi-vehicle collision. Emotional support from family members, friends, clergy, or grief counseling services can be especially important after such a sudden and traumatic loss.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
