A 16-year-old passenger was killed in a late-night collision on Long Beach Boulevard on December 23.
Collision Details
Police were dispatched to the scene at approximately 8:20 p.m. The crash occurred near the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and Wardlow Road. Responding officers observed the scene immediately upon arrival.
The first vehicle involved was a 2007 Saturn Aura driven by a 17-year-old male. The second vehicle was a 2021 Jeep Wrangler whose driver was uninjured. Both vehicles were traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard.
The Saturn Aura was attempting to change lanes when it collided with the Jeep Wrangler. The impact caused serious injuries to the passenger and driver of the Saturn. Both were transported to a hospital in critical condition.
Investigation Findings
Preliminary investigations indicate that speed and distracted driving may have contributed to the collision. The Long Beach Police Department released this statement on Thursday. “Speed and distracted driving may have been contributing factors to this collision,” the Long Beach Police Department said. The statement references the vehicles’ southbound trajectory.
The driver of the Jeep Wrangler cooperated with investigators at the scene. No injuries were reported for the Jeep’s driver. The driver was also taken to the same hospital for evaluation.
Investigators were notified that the 16-year-old passenger died on Christmas Eve. Police have chosen not to release the identity of the teenager because of her age. The death was confirmed by hospital records.
Police Statement
The Long Beach Police Department released a statement on Thursday. The statement cited speed and distracted driving as possible factors. It also mentioned the vehicles’ southbound trajectory. The department is working to gather more information.
Witness Contact
Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail. The detail can be reached at 562-570-7358. Witness statements are essential for the ongoing investigation.
Medical Response
Both the driver and passenger were transported to a hospital for emergency treatment. They were placed in critical condition upon arrival. Medical personnel worked to stabilize the patients. The hospital staff provided advanced care to address the injuries.
Impact on Traffic
The collision caused a temporary slowdown on Long Beach Boulevard. Traffic was redirected by local authorities to manage the congestion. The incident disrupted normal flow for several minutes. Drivers were advised to seek alternate routes.
Aftermath
The Long Beach Police Department continues to investigate the crash. Investigators are reviewing traffic camera footage and collecting evidence. The case is being processed under standard protocols. Authorities are maintaining communication with the families involved.
Key Takeaways
- 16-year-old passenger died after collision.
- 17-year-old driver of Saturn Aura also critical.
- Speed and distracted driving cited as potential factors.
The incident underscores the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of safe lane changes. The Long Beach Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
