Key Takeaways
- A 26-year-old U.S. Marine and his girlfriend were killed in a violent crash in Panorama City, Los Angeles.
- The crash occurred when a driver in a gray Plymouth minivan ran a red light and slammed into the Marine’s blue Ford Mustang.
- The driver of the minivan was also killed, and a passenger in the van remains hospitalized in critical condition.
- The crash is believed to have been caused by the minivan driver fleeing the scene of an unrelated collision.
- The community is in shock and mourning, with many calling for safer driving practices.
Introduction to the Tragedy
A devastating car crash in Panorama City, Los Angeles, has left a community in shock and mourning. The crash, which occurred on Friday evening, resulted in the deaths of three people, including a 26-year-old U.S. Marine and his girlfriend. The Marine, identified as Adrian Carrillo, was driving a blue Ford Mustang with his girlfriend when a driver in a gray Plymouth minivan ran a red light and slammed into the vehicle. The crash was reported just after 9:30 p.m. on Terra Bella Street and Woodman Avenue, and investigators believe that the driver of the minivan was fleeing the scene of an unrelated collision prior to the crash.
The Crash and Its Aftermath
The crash was a violent one, with the minivan driver also being killed in the collision. A passenger in the van remains hospitalized in critical condition. Carrillo and his girlfriend died at the scene, and the community is still trying to come to terms with the loss. The driver of a Honda Civic, who was involved in the unrelated collision, fled the scene and is still being sought by police. Investigators are urging anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward and are asking the driver of the Civic to turn themselves in. The LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division is handling the investigation and can be reached at (818) 644-8116 or (818) 644-8020.
Community Reaction
The community is in shock and mourning, with many paying tribute to Carrillo and his girlfriend. A growing memorial has been set up at the crash site, filled with flowers and candles. Carrillo’s cousin, Juan Bautista, spoke to Eyewitness News at the memorial, saying that Carrillo was like a brother to him. "He was such a good person," Bautista said. "He dedicated himself to God. He took care of his parents so much." Bautista expressed his anger and sadness at the loss of his cousin, saying that it was unfair that such a young life was cut short. Other neighbors and community members have also expressed their condolences, with many calling for safer driving practices. "You hear about accidents all over the world, but once you’re there in that radius, it’s like, ‘Ok. It could happen to me. It could happen to somebody I know," said one neighbor.
Calls for Safer Driving
The crash has highlighted the need for safer driving practices in the community. Many have expressed concerns about the intersection where the crash occurred, saying that it is a notoriously dangerous spot. "At least like once or twice a month, there’s an accident," said neighbor Anissa Avelar. Others have called for drivers to be more cautious and to stay at the scene of a crash if they are involved. "I really hope that people can really understand to just drive safely," said Sebastian Porras. "Our lives are so important, and anything can happen within seconds." The police have also reminded drivers of the importance of staying at the scene of a crash and cooperating with investigators.
Investigation and Memorial
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with police still searching for the driver of the Honda Civic who fled the scene. Anyone with information regarding the crash is being asked to come forward and contact the LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division. A memorial service for Carrillo and his girlfriend is being planned, and the community is coming together to support the families of the victims. Bautista and his family are still trying to come to terms with the loss of their loved one, and the community is rallying around them. "I had so many things planned so we could just hang out," Bautista said. "Adrian, I’m going to miss you so much. You’re always going to be in my heart… always, always." The community will continue to mourn the loss of Carrillo and his girlfriend, and will work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for all.
