Fatal Wrong-Way Driver Crash in Pasadena: 2 Dead, Multiple Injured
Tragedy struck on Sunday morning in Pasadena as a wrong-way driver caused a fatal crash on the 134 Freeway, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving several others injured. Local authorities were quick to respond to the scene of the horrific collision, which occurred on the westbound freeway at North San Rafael Avenue.
Details of the Incident
The California Highway Patrol received a distressing call at 8:12 a.m. reporting a traffic collision, prompting their swift arrival at approximately 8:30 a.m. Pasadena city spokesperson Lisa Derderian confirmed that local police also responded promptly to the scene. Preliminary reports suggest that the crash was caused by a wrong-way driver, with CHP logs indicating a vehicle traveling eastbound in the westbound lane.
Impact and Response
Tragically, one person lost their life at the scene of the crash, while another individual succumbed to their injuries after being transported by ambulance. Three more individuals sustained significant injuries, with an additional person reporting minor complaints. The severity of the collision prompted an extensive response from emergency services, including multiple fire trucks, engines, and ambulances.
Derderian described the crash as one of the most horrific incidents that first responders have encountered in a long time, emphasizing the significant impact and injuries involved. In a precautionary measure, an emergency helicopter was deployed to search for any potential additional victims who may have been ejected from vehicles during the collision.
Traffic Impact and Investigation
As a result of the crash, all westbound lanes on the freeway were closed off starting at Fair Oaks Avenue, leading to significant traffic diversions in the area. While authorities worked to reopen the freeway in the aftermath of the incident, the impact on side streets where traffic was redirected was expected to persist for an extended period.
The cause of the collision is currently under investigation by the California Highway Patrol, with authorities diligently working to determine the sequence of events that led to this tragic loss of life and injuries. In the wake of this devastating incident, the Pasadena community mourns the lives lost and prays for the swift recovery of those injured in the crash.