(Alhambra, CA) A woman was killed and three others, including a police officer, were injured early Thursday morning, November 20, in a Valley Boulevard crash that occurred during a high-speed pursuit in Alhambra.
According to the Alhambra Police Department, the crash happened around 3 a.m. near Valley Boulevard and Fremont Avenue. At that time, officers pursued a suspect vehicle in the area. As a result, several vehicles collided, a woman inside a gray SUV got ejected from her vehicle.
By the time first responders arrived, they pronounced the woman dead at the scene. An Alhambra police officer was found unconscious and was transported to Los Angeles General Medical Center in critical condition. Two other victims were taken to a hospital in unknown condition.
FOX 11 reported that authorities took a man into custody at the scene. Video from the crash site showed several vehicles, including a police cruiser, with significant front-end damage.
The California Highway Patrol is assisting the Alhambra Police Department with the investigation. It remains unclear what initiated the chase.
Overview on the Valley Boulevard Crash
When a fatal collision occurs during a police pursuit, investigators review both criminal and procedural laws to determine responsibility. Under California Penal Code §192(c), a driver may face vehicular manslaughter charges if reckless or negligent driving results in death.
Police departments must also follow California Vehicle Code §17004.7, which governs pursuit policies designed to minimize risk to the public and officers. Investigators will assess whether speed, proximity, or intersection control contributed to the crash.
Other relevant statutes may include the Basic Speed Law, which requires safe speeds for existing conditions, and the Right-of-Way Law, which mandates drivers yield to emergency vehicles. These factors will help determine how the Valley Boulevard crash unfolded.
Support for the Family
If you are a family member of the woman killed in this crash, you should contact the Alhambra Police Department or the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office for official updates and information regarding next-of-kin procedures.
Families may wish to speak with a wrongful-death attorney experienced in pursuit-related crashes. They can help understand potential civil remedies under California law. Legal counsel can help review liability and assist with claims for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
For grief and financial support, the Los Angeles County Victim Services Division provides free resources for families affected by fatal collisions. Assistance is available through the District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program at (800) 380-3811.
As Alhambra mourns this tragic event, investigators continue their work to determine what led to the deadly pursuit and ensure accountability for all involved.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
