1 Dead, Major Backup After 5 Freeway Multi-Car Crash

1 Dead, Major Backup After 5 Freeway Multi-Car Crash

> At a Glance

> – One person died in a multi-vehicle crash on northbound I-5 in Santa Clarita early Tuesday

> – Only one lane open near Magic Mountain Parkway; drivers forced off at Valencia Blvd

> – CHP Sigalert warns of delays up to one hour through rush hour

> – Why it matters: Morning commuters face major detours and extensive delays

A fatal collision involving multiple vehicles-including a semi truck-shut down most of the northbound 5 Freeway in Santa Clarita before dawn Tuesday, snarling the morning commute.

Crash Details

The California Highway Patrol received reports of the wreck around 3 a.m. just south of Magic Mountain Parkway. Officers confirmed the pile-up involved several passenger cars and at least one big rig.

Emergency crews pronounced one person dead at the scene. Authorities have not released the victim’s identity or specified what triggered the collision.

Traffic Impact

The wreckage blocked all but a single lane, forcing the CHP to issue a Sigalert for the area. Northbound traffic is being diverted off the freeway at Valencia Boulevard, creating a bottleneck that stretches for miles.

  • Expect up to 60 minutes of extra travel time
  • Alternate routes via Sierra Highway and McBean Parkway are strongly advised
  • Caltrans crews are on scene clearing debris and repairing guardrail damage

Key Takeaways

multicar
  • One fatality confirmed in multi-car crash on I-5 near Magic Mountain Parkway
  • Only one northbound lane remains open; full closure possible during cleanup
  • Commuters should plan detours until further notice

Check real-time Caltrans updates before heading out; no estimated time has been given for fully reopening the freeway.

Author

  • My name is Daniel J. Whitman, and I’m a Los Angeles–based journalist specializing in weather, climate, and environmental news.

    Daniel J. Whitman reports on transportation, infrastructure, and urban development for News of Los Angeles. A former Daily Bruin reporter, he’s known for investigative stories that explain how transit and housing decisions shape daily life across LA neighborhoods.

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