PALMS, CA (August 31, 2025) – A fatal multi-vehicle crash occurred early Sunday morning on the southbound San Diego (405) Freeway in the Palms neighborhood of Los Angeles, authorities reported.
The Los Angeles County Office of Medical Examiner identified the victim as 39-year-old Crystal Diaz Martinez. Her city of residence was not immediately available.
According to the California Highway Patrol accident report, the collision occurred around 3:10 a.m., just north of West Pico Boulevard. The exact number of vehicles involved in the wreck has not yet been confirmed.
Emergency responders and law enforcement officials responded to the scene, and the crash remains under investigation.
Officials note that traffic collisions in California are often linked to factors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving, including cellphone use. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 8,055 lives were lost in motor vehicle collisions during the first quarter of 2025 alone.
Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and follow traffic safety laws as investigations continue into the cause of the crash.