(Burbank, CA) A man was killed late Sunday night, March 1, after being struck by a vehicle in a northbound 5 Freeway collision.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported at approximately 10:23 p.m. on the Empire Avenue off-ramp of the 5 Freeway. Authorities said first responders pronounced one person dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later identified the victim as Elman Barrera-Santos, 35.
A news videographer at the scene reported that Barrera-Santos appeared to have been on foot when he was struck. Officials did not confirm why he was in the roadway or how the vehicle approached before the impact.
Investigators did not disclose details about the driver involved or whether additional vehicles may have played a role. The circumstances surrounding the northbound 5 Freeway collision remained under investigation as CHP officers continued gathering evidence and reviewing the events leading up to the crash.
Analysis on the Northbound 5 Freeway Collision
When a fatal crash involves a pedestrian on a freeway off-ramp, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on pedestrian roadway presence, driver attentiveness, and safe speeds in merging areas.
Because the victim was reportedly on foot near a freeway ramp, authorities may examine the Freeway Pedestrian Prohibition Law. This law generally prohibits pedestrians from being on freeways or ramps except in emergencies. Investigators often assess why a person may have been present in a restricted traffic area.
Officials may also consider the Basic Speed Law. This statute requires drivers to operate their vehicles at speeds that are reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Off-ramps require careful speed adjustments as vehicles transition from freeway speeds to surface streets.
Investigators could further review the Duty of Drivers Toward Pedestrians Law if applicable. This law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid striking pedestrians whenever possible. These combined statutes help guide CHP’s evaluation of the northbound 5 Freeway collision as the investigation continues.
How the Family Can Move Forward
If you are related to Elman Barrera-Santos or supporting his loved ones, 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 after a fatal freeway collision. Emotional support from family members, friends, or grief counseling services can be especially important during 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.
