(Santa Clarita, CA) The California Highway Patrol are searching for a driver who fled the October 8th collision near Via Princessa that killed Semaj Weldon, 28, and injured two passengers.
At about 4:15 p.m., the CHP received reports of a collision on the northbound Antelope Valley Freeway south of Via Princessa. A white Kia K5 and a black Ram 1500 were involved. The Ram overturned into the center median, while the Kia came to rest on the right shoulder, the agency said.
During the crash, the Ram’s driver was ejected and suffered fatal injuries, according to highway patrol officials. The Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office identified him as Weldon and confirmed that he died at the scene. Two passengers in the Ram went to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, one with major injuries and the other with moderate injuries.
Debris from the collision also struck a white Ford F-150, the CHP said. None of its occupants reported injuries. Investigators had not established the circumstances that led to the initial collision.
After the Kia stopped, its driver left on foot, according to the CHP’s account. The agency described him as an adult man wearing a black shirt and denim pants who was barefoot. Witnesses or anyone who can help identify him should contact Officer M. Hotaki at the CHP Newhall Office at 661-600-1600.
Analysis of the 14 Freeway Accident
Stopping the car on the shoulder does not, by itself, fulfill a driver’s responsibilities after someone is hurt. California law also requires the driver to remain available to provide information and necessary assistance.
California Vehicle Code 20001 requires a driver involved in a collision that injures or kills another person to stop immediately and fulfill the required duties. Those obligations apply regardless of who caused the crash. Here, the CHP reports that the Kia’s driver stopped on the shoulder and then fled, leaving investigators to identify him.
The assistance requirement comes from California Vehicle Code 20003, which also calls for identifying information to be exchanged. Reasonable assistance includes arranging medical transportation when treatment is clearly needed or an injured person requests it. The passengers’ hospital transport establishes that they received care; it does not explain what the Kia’s driver did before leaving.
What the Family Can Do
You can ask Officer Hotaki how your family will receive updates about the search following the 14 Freeway accident. Ask when the collision report will be available and how to submit any information you receive about the Kia’s driver. Keeping that contact with the investigating office gives you a direct place to bring questions as the search continues.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
