LOS ANGELES, CA – A head-on collision in South Los Angeles early Christmas morning left one person dead and seven others injured, authorities said.
The crash occurred shortly before 2 a.m. on West 53rd Street near Broadway, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
Emergency responders arrived to find two severely damaged vehicles, including a dark-colored SUV that had flipped onto its side in front of an apartment building. A smaller sedan was also heavily damaged, with debris scattered across the street.
Officials confirmed that one victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while one other individual required extrication from the wreckage.
Three people were transported to local hospitals, including one patient in serious condition and two in fair condition, LAFD said. The remaining five individuals declined medical transport after being evaluated by paramedics.
Footage from the scene showed authorities investigating the crash, with one man being handcuffed and placed into the back of a police patrol vehicle. However, officials have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made or if alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) traffic detectives, who are working to determine what led to the fatal crash.
Authorities have not released the identities of the deceased victim or those injured.
Witnesses are urged to contact the LAPD South Traffic Division with any information regarding the incident. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional updates are expected as authorities review evidence and interview witnesses.
