Ingrid Zapata Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the woman who was killed in a freak accident on the Pomona (60) Freeway early Monday morning. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Tuesday that the victim was 57-year-old Ingrid Zapata.
The incident occurred at around 2:26 a.m. on the eastbound lanes of the Pomona Freeway near the Garey Avenue off-ramp in Pomona, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Investigators said a truck traveling westbound lost a tire, which then bounced across the freeway’s center divider into the eastbound lanes. The tire struck the windshield of a white Lexus sedan driven by Zapata.
The impact caused severe damage to the vehicle, shattering the windshield and partially collapsing the roof. Video from the scene showed the extensive destruction to the front of the car. Tragically, Zapata was pronounced dead at the scene.
The CHP reported that the truck’s tire appeared to have dislodged while the vehicle was moving at highway speed. After crossing into oncoming traffic lanes, it hit Zapata’s vehicle with such force that it caused catastrophic injuries.
Following the crash, all eastbound lanes of the Pomona Freeway were closed at 2:37 a.m. while emergency crews responded and investigators examined the scene. A SigAlert was issued at 3:14 a.m. to notify drivers of the extended closure. By 3:58 a.m., all lanes except for the slow lane had been reopened to traffic.
Authorities have not yet released further details about the truck involved, including whether the driver stopped or was located after the incident. The CHP continues to investigate the circumstances of how the tire detached, which could involve examining mechanical failures, improper maintenance, or other contributing factors.
The sudden and unusual nature of the accident has left the community stunned. Tire-related incidents at high speeds can be deadly, particularly when large truck tires become loose and cross into opposing traffic. Officials are urging drivers and trucking companies to ensure proper vehicle maintenance and inspections to prevent tragedies like this from occurring.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement is expected to release more information on the truck’s origin, its operator, and whether any violations occurred that might have led to the fatal accident. In the meantime, the loss of Ingrid Zapata stands as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers on the road.
