Hawthorne, CA (May 18, 2026) – A violent multi-car crash left one person dead and three others hospitalized Sunday, May 17, at the intersection of Imperial Highway and Inglewood Avenue in Hawthorne. Emergency units responded to the scene at approximately 11:45 a.m.
The driver of a blue SUV ran a red light at high speed and struck another vehicle, setting off a chain-reaction crash involving four cars in total. Two people required extrication from one of the vehicles before receiving medical attention.
A witness at the scene told local news that the SUV appeared to be traveling at extreme speed and showed no signs of slowing before the impact. The same witness ran to help those trapped in the vehicles and found an unresponsive woman in one of the cars, as well as a second passenger who remained conscious.
Emergency units transported four people to the hospital. One person was pronounced dead. Investigators confirmed that a second person remains in extremely critical condition. Authorities have not confirmed whether speed or alcohol contributed to the accident.
The investigation into this fatal collision remains ongoing by the Hawthorne Police Department Traffic Bureau.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person who lost their life in this crash, and we hope for the recovery of all those still receiving care.
Legal Options Families Have After a Serious Car Accident in California
After a serious or fatal car accident in California, injured people and their families may be eligible to pursue compensation through a personal injury or wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver. California’s fault-based insurance system means that the person responsible for causing a crash carries the financial liability for the losses that follow.
California law allows injured people to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases involving a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to pursue damages for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
California follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning that even if an injured person carries some degree of responsibility for the accident, they may still recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault. A car accident attorney can review the details of the crash and explain how liability may apply in a specific case.
At Saleh Law Group, we have extensive experience reviewing serious accident and wrongful death cases throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California.
If you lost a loved one or suffered injuries in a crash in California, call Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371 to speak with our team and learn more about the options that may be available to you.
