Fatal Four Vehicle Traffic Collision NR19089rc

Woodland Hills: The Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Traffic Division has identified and arrested a 17-year-old male for murder. He was recklessly driving his vehicle when he collided with another vehicle killing the driver.

On Friday, March 29, 2019, at 10 p.m., a black, 2019, Mercedes C300 was traveling westbound on Ventura Boulevard when the driver failed to stop for a red light at Winnetka Avenue.

The Mercedes collided with the driver’s side of a dark green, 2002, Toyota Tacoma, that was travelling southbound Winnetka Avenue negotiating a left turn to eastbound Ventura Boulevard. The driver of the Mercedes lost control, went into oncoming traffic and collided with a blue 2008, Lexus, RX400, and a silver, 2003, Ford, Expedition.

The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at scene. The identity of the driver of the Toyota is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

The Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel responded and transported the driver and passenger of the Mercedes vehicle to a local hospital in unknown condition.

The Los Angeles Police Department has conducted an extensive preliminary investigation. Witnesses claim the 17-year-old driver of the Mercedes was operating his vehicle recklessly for several blocks prior to the collision. The totality of the circumstances indicates the driver of the Mercedes displayed a willful disregard for human life. As a result, he was arrested for murder.

Drivers are reminded that they must obey the rules of the road. Reckless driving will not be tolerated in the City of Los Angeles.

The investigation is ongoing, anyone who may have witnessed or have information regarding this collision contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Traffic Detectives, Investigator Reyes, (818) 644-8032, or Detective II Menesez at (818) 644-8028, during normal business hours. After-hours calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web Tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”