Three fatalities occurred in a multi-vehicle collision early Sunday on the 5 Freeway in Norwalk, while three others were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
The initial investigation by the California Highway Patrol revealed that Clarence Hill, driving a 2017 Honda, crashed into a sound barrier while travelling northbound on Interstate 5 around 2:20 a.m. The collision left the Honda disabled in the roadway.
A tow truck driver, Oscar Sosa, stopped to assist the disabled Honda. At this point, Hector Rivero, driving a 2011 Kia, crashed into the rear of the tow truck at an unknown speed. This collision resulted in the death of an anonymous 32-year-old female passenger in the Kia. Subsequently, Luis Marroquin, driving a 2016 Toyota, crashed into the rear of the tow truck, resulting in the death of two unidentified male passengers in his vehicle.
Both Rivero and Marroquin were taken to Saint Francis Medical Center for their injuries and were later arrested on charges of felony DUI. Hill was arrested at the scene and charged with misdemeanor DUI.
As this incident is still under investigation, the identities of all passengers are being withheld until the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office notifies the next of kin. This tragic accident serves as a severe reminder of the potential dangers of drinking and driving, and the importance of adhering to traffic laws to ensure road safety.