A violent late-night traffic collision in Panorama City left three people dead and another fighting for life after a minivan reportedly sped through a red light and slammed into multiple vehicles, authorities said.
The crash occurred shortly before 9:40 p.m. Friday at the busy intersection of Terra Bella Street and Woodman Avenue. Investigators say a minivan traveling westbound failed to stop at a red signal and struck two vehicles that were lawfully moving through the intersection.
Police believe the minivan was traveling at a high rate of speed and may have been attempting to flee from a separate collision moments earlier, though that aspect of the case remains under investigation.
The force of the impact caused extensive damage. One vehicle was pushed into a light pole, while the minivan veered off and crashed into several parked cars. Debris was scattered across the roadway, and emergency crews worked for an extended period to secure the scene.
Paramedics pronounced three people dead at the location, including two young adults who were riding in one of the struck vehicles and the driver of the minivan. A fourth individual was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Several others involved in the crash declined medical treatment.
Authorities also confirmed that one driver involved in the collision left the scene on foot before officers arrived. Failing to remain at the scene and provide assistance is a violation of California law, and investigators are working to identify and locate that individual.
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Traffic Division is handling the investigation and is reviewing evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to determine the full sequence of events.
Officials are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact local traffic investigators or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The incident serves as another reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of obeying traffic signals, especially at busy city intersections.
