PASADENA, CA – In the early hours of the morning, a devastating wrong-way collision unfolded on the westbound 134 Freeway near San Rafael, claiming two lives and injuring three others in a tragic sequence involving at least four vehicles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the fatalities and reported that the injured were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent care.
Authorities have enacted a closure of the freeway, starting from the westbound 210 at Fair Oaks, extending to the affected stretch of the 134 Freeway. This closure is anticipated to remain in effect for several hours as investigators work to piece together the circumstances leading to the crash. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes to minimize disruption.
The collision, marked by the chaos of twisted metal and debris, has prompted a comprehensive investigation by the CHP. Initial reports suggest that the wrong-way driver may have entered the freeway from a nearby on-ramp, leading to the catastrophic head-on impact. The names of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.
Witnesses at the scene described a scene of confusion and horror as emergency responders worked tirelessly to extricate individuals from the wreckage. The quick response of paramedics and firefighters is credited with preventing further casualties in this tragic incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the CHP is appealing to the public for any information or dashcam footage that may shed light on the events preceding the crash. The agency emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors that contributed to this tragedy, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by wrong-way driving, an issue that has seen an alarming rise in recent years. Authorities continue to explore measures to enhance road safety, including improved signage and increased patrols in high-risk areas.
While the freeway remains closed, traffic is being diverted, and commuters are urged to remain patient and plan for potential delays. The community is left grappling with the aftermath of a senseless tragedy that underscores the fragility of life on the road.
As families mourn their losses and survivors begin their road to recovery, the Pasadena community is rallying together, offering support and condolences to those affected by this heartbreaking event.