Los Angeles, Calif. – Authorities have released the identity of the man who died in a fiery crash in Long Beach earlier this week, linking the incident to a possible road rage or street racing episode. The victim has been identified as Jose Cesena, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. Cesena was driving a 2017 Mitsubishi Fuso box truck when the collision occurred late Wednesday morning.
The crash took place at about 11:45 a.m. near the intersection of Seventh Street and Margo Avenue, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) reported. When officers arrived, they found members of the Long Beach Fire Department working to rescue Cesena, who had become trapped inside his burning truck. Despite urgent rescue efforts, Cesena was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two passengers riding in the box truck survived the crash but suffered injuries. They, along with the driver of a 2023 Tesla Model 3, were transported to a nearby hospital for medical care. The Tesla driver, a 31-year-old resident of San Diego, was not immediately identified by authorities.
According to preliminary findings, investigators believe the Tesla was engaged in a road rage or street racing incident with a dark-colored Subaru before the fatal collision. Witnesses reported that both vehicles were weaving dangerously through traffic at high speeds along Seventh Street.
Police said that during this reckless driving, the Tesla slammed into the back of Cesena’s box truck. The force of the impact caused the truck, which was carrying hazardous materials, to crash into a brick sound wall. The vehicle then broke through the wall, overturned, and caught fire.
Although the truck was transporting hazardous materials, officials confirmed that none of the materials were released during the crash. This helped prevent what could have been a far more dangerous and widespread situation.
LBPD noted that speed and reckless driving appear to be the primary factors contributing to the deadly collision. Investigators are continuing to look into whether road rage or racing directly led to the crash and are working to locate the Subaru that was allegedly involved.
At this time, police have not provided additional details about the Subaru or its driver, leaving questions about whether that vehicle fled the scene. The Tesla driver remains hospitalized, and the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about the Subaru involved is urged to contact Detective Ashley Van Holland with LBPD’s Collision Investigation Detail at 562-570-7355. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can provide tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
The tragic crash has underscored the dangers of reckless driving and aggressive behavior on the road. For Cesena’s family, the incident has brought sudden loss, while investigators work to determine whether criminal charges will be filed once the case is fully reviewed.
