(Sun Valley, CA) One person was killed and four others were injured late Tuesday night, February 3, when a southbound 5 Freeway accident occurred.
Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters responded to the southbound lanes near Penrose Street around 9:53 p.m., according to department spokeswoman Lyndsey Lantz. Initial reports indicated a pedestrian walked in one of the freeway lanes when two vehicles collided. Emergency crews found one person with fatal injuries at the scene.
Paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the location. Authorities did not release the person’s name, age, or gender. That information remained unavailable as the investigation continued. Officials have not clarified the pedestrian’s actions immediately before the crash.
Four other people suffered injuries and were taken to area hospitals for treatment. First responders listed a 42-year-old woman and a 22-year-old woman in serious condition, while a 19-year-old woman and a 7-year-old girl were reported in fair condition, Lantz said. Officials did not release details about which vehicles the injured occupants rode in.
The California Highway Patrol issued a SigAlert that closed all southbound lanes of the freeway near the Penrose Street exit for about an hour while officers investigated. At approximately 1:35 a.m. Wednesday, one lane reopened to traffic. The cause of the crash remained under investigation.
Analysis on the Southbound 5 Freeway Accident
When a fatal crash occurs on an active freeway, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often consider driver behavior, pedestrian presence, and nighttime roadway conditions.
Because the incident involved a reported pedestrian in freeway lanes, investigators may examine the Pedestrian Prohibition on Freeways Law. This law generally restricts pedestrians from walking on controlled-access highways due to the extreme danger posed by high-speed traffic. Freeways are not designed for foot traffic, which limits drivers’ ability to react safely.
If speed becomes part of the review, authorities may also look at the Basic Speed Law. This law requires drivers to travel at speeds that are reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. At night, reduced visibility can significantly shorten reaction time when an unexpected hazard appears.
Investigators could further consider the Following Too Closely Law if vehicle spacing is relevant. This law requires drivers to maintain enough distance to stop safely. On busy freeways, close following distances can increase the likelihood of secondary collisions, which may be reviewed as part of the southbound 5 Freeway accident investigation.
Support for the Family
If you are related to the person who died or are supporting their loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request official CHP and coroner reports when they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional to better understand your options during this process. Seeking emotional support from family, friends, or grief counseling resources can be an important step as you navigate a sudden and painful loss.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
