A devastating traffic collision in Panorama City, Los Angeles, has left three people dead, including a 26-year-old active-duty U.S. Marine and his girlfriend. The violent crash occurred late Friday night and has sparked renewed concerns over reckless driving and dangerous intersections in the area.
Fatal Crash in Panorama City Leaves Community in Mourning
The deadly accident happened shortly after 9:30 p.m. at the intersection of Terra Bella Street and Woodman Avenue. According to investigators, a gray Plymouth minivan traveling westbound at a high speed failed to stop at a red light and crashed into two southbound vehicles—a blue Ford Mustang and a tan Honda Civic.
Authorities believe the minivan’s driver was attempting to flee the scene of a separate collision before causing this fatal crash.
Victims Identified
Family members confirmed that Adrian Carrillo, a 26-year-old U.S. Marine, and his girlfriend were inside the Ford Mustang. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the minivan was also killed, while a passenger in the van remains hospitalized in critical condition.
The driver of the Honda Civic reportedly exited the vehicle and fled the scene without identifying themselves or providing assistance, prompting an ongoing police search.
Family and Neighbors React
Carrillo’s family described him as a devoted son, a man of faith, and someone who deeply cared for his loved ones. A memorial of flowers and candles continues to grow at the crash site as friends, relatives, and neighbors pay their respects.
Residents of Panorama City say crashes are frequent at the intersection and are urging for increased traffic enforcement and safer driving habits.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are actively searching for the hit-and-run driver from the Honda Civic. Authorities stress that leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and can have serious legal consequences.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
📊 Crash Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Friday, just after 9:30 p.m. |
| Location | Terra Bella Street & Woodman Avenue, Panorama City |
| Total Fatalities | 3 |
| Vehicles Involved | Plymouth minivan, Ford Mustang, Honda Civic |
| Primary Cause | Speeding, red-light violation |
| Marine Identified | Adrian Carrillo, age 26 |
| Hit-and-Run | Honda Civic driver fled scene |
| Passenger Status | One hospitalized in critical condition |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was the U.S. Marine killed in the crash?
The Marine was identified by family members as Adrian Carrillo, a 26-year-old active-duty service member.
What caused the Panorama City crash?
Investigators believe the crash was caused by a speeding minivan that ran a red light while fleeing an unrelated collision.
How many people died in the accident?
Three people were killed: the Marine, his girlfriend, and the minivan driver.
Is the hit-and-run driver still at large?
Yes. Police are currently searching for the driver of the Honda Civic who fled the scene.
Was anyone else injured?
A passenger in the minivan survived but is hospitalized in critical condition.
Why is this intersection considered dangerous?
Local residents report frequent accidents at this intersection, citing speeding and lack of caution by drivers.
What are police reminding drivers after this crash?
Authorities emphasize that drivers must remain at the scene of any collision and provide aid until help arrives.
Road Safety Reminder
This tragic incident highlights the importance of obeying traffic signals, avoiding reckless driving, and staying at the scene after a crash. Lives can change in seconds, and safe driving remains a shared responsibility for everyone on the road.
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