Erika De La Riva Obituary, Death – Authorities are investigating a deadly crash that occurred early Saturday morning on a major Southern California freeway near the city of Glendale. The collision involved multiple vehicles and resulted in the death of one woman, while at least one other person was seriously injured.
According to officials, highway patrol officers were dispatched to the westbound lanes of the Foothill Freeway after receiving reports of a major traffic collision during the early morning hours. When officers arrived, they found several vehicles that had been involved in the crash, including an SUV that had overturned and come to rest on its side. The scene indicated a violent impact, prompting an immediate response from emergency crews.
Paramedics from the county fire department were called to assist at the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, one female occupant of a vehicle was pronounced dead at the location of the crash. The victim was later confirmed to be a woman in her early 40s. Authorities did not release additional personal information, and officials noted that next of kin had been notified.
Emergency responders also treated other individuals involved in the crash. At least one person was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for further medical care. Reports indicated that this individual sustained severe injuries and was listed in critical condition following the collision. No additional details about the injured person were made public.
Due to the severity of the crash and the number of vehicles involved, authorities temporarily shut down all westbound lanes of the freeway in the area. Traffic was diverted as investigators worked to document the scene, clear damaged vehicles, and ensure the roadway was safe for reopening. The closure remained in effect for several hours before lanes were gradually reopened later in the morning.
Drivers traveling through the area experienced significant delays during the closure. Officials urged motorists to seek alternate routes while cleanup and investigation efforts were underway. Tow trucks and road crews worked alongside law enforcement to remove wreckage and restore normal traffic flow.
The California Highway Patrol stated that the cause of the crash had not yet been determined. Investigators are reviewing physical evidence from the scene, including vehicle positions, damage patterns, and roadway conditions. Officers are also considering whether speed, impaired driving, or other contributing factors may have played a role.
Authorities emphasized that freeway crashes involving multiple vehicles can be complex and often require extensive investigation before conclusions are reached. No citations or arrests were immediately announced, and officials said the findings of the investigation will be released once it is completed.
Officials reminded drivers of the importance of staying alert while traveling, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility may be reduced and fatigue can affect reaction times. They also encouraged motorists to maintain safe speeds and to be cautious in areas with heavy traffic or construction.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement expressed condolences to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life in the crash. Officials reiterated their commitment to improving roadway safety and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Further updates may be provided once investigators have determined the circumstances that led to the collision. For now, authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information related to the incident to contact law enforcement through official channels.
