One person was killed, and three others were injured after pursuit led to reckless vehicle vs. big rig collision in Long Beach on Monday evening, May 13, 2024.
According to the Long Beach Police Department, the collision happened around 10:28 p.m. near the northbound freeway and Anaheim Street.
Authorities stated that the responding officers were in pursuit of a stolen Kia Optima along Anaheim Street. During the pursuit, the Kia crashed into a big rig, igniting a flame inside the Kia.
Before Long Beach Fire Department officials arrived, LBPD officers tried to knock down the fire with fire extinguishers after dragging several occupants from the flaming Kia. The fire in the blazing Kia was then extinguished by firefighters.
Police said one person was pronounced dead at the scene, and at least three victims were transported to a hospital. The CHP will handle the traffic part of the investigation, while the LAPD will look into any possible criminal charges connected to the crash.
For several hours, all lanes of the northbound freeway were blocked off while law enforcement investigated the crash and searched for relevant evidence.
The investigation continues.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.