Lebec, CA – A tragic traffic collision on Christmas Day claimed the lives of two people and sent six others to nearby hospitals after a three-vehicle crash on the 5 Freeway in Lebec, according to authorities.
The deadly incident unfolded during the afternoon hours amid stormy weather conditions that impacted much of Southern California, creating hazardous driving conditions for motorists traveling through the region.
Emergency Crews Respond to Serious Crash on I-5
Emergency responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department were dispatched to the scene shortly after 2:56 p.m., following reports of a major collision involving multiple vehicles. The crash occurred along a busy stretch of Interstate 5, a critical north-south corridor frequently traveled by holiday commuters.
According to Pauline McGee, a Public Information Officer with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, first responders arrived to find a chaotic and severe crash scene. Despite life-saving efforts, two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, underscoring the seriousness of the impact.
Authorities have not yet released the ages or genders of the victims, and their identities remain undisclosed pending notification of next of kin.
Six Others Transported to Area Hospitals
In addition to the fatalities, six people involved in the collision were transported to nearby hospitals for medical evaluation and treatment. Officials reported that three patients sustained minor injuries, while the remaining three individuals were not injured but were taken as a precautionary measure for observation.
Fire department crews worked swiftly to assess each victim, ensuring that everyone received appropriate care amid challenging weather and traffic conditions.
Medical officials have not provided updates on the current condition of those hospitalized.
Weather Likely a Contributing Factor
While the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, authorities noted that poor weather conditions may have played a role. A winter storm system moved through Southern California on Christmas Day, dumping several inches of rain across the region.
The heavy rainfall likely led to slick roadways, reduced visibility, and dangerous driving conditions, especially in mountainous areas like Lebec, which is known for sudden weather changes and steep grades along Interstate 5.
Investigators are examining whether speed, road conditions, or other factors contributed to the deadly crash.
CHP Issues SigAlert, Lanes Shut Down
The severity of the crash prompted the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to issue a SigAlert, closing the No. 1 and No. 2 lanes of the freeway in the affected area. The closures caused significant traffic delays as holiday travelers were forced to slow down or seek alternate routes.
CHP officers warned that the lanes would remain closed for an undetermined amount of time while investigators documented the scene and cleanup crews worked to remove the damaged vehicles and debris.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials are reviewing evidence, assessing vehicle damage, and gathering witness statements to determine how the collision occurred.
As the investigation moves forward, officials may release additional information regarding the victims and any contributing factors once details are confirmed.
Have you driven through Lebec or the Grapevine during severe weather conditions? Do you believe more safety measures are needed during winter storms on major highways like Interstate 5? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
