One Killed in Deadly Multi-Vehicle Crash on 101 Freeway in Encino
Encino, CA — A fatal multi-vehicle collision early Saturday left one person dead and snarled northbound traffic on the 101 Freeway, authorities confirmed. The fatal crash occurred just before 2 a.m. south of White Oak Avenue, shutting down all lanes in the area for several hours before reopening.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports the incident began when a black sedan reportedly disabled in the fast lane with hazard lights on blocked the No. 1 lane. A victim had exited the vehicle when a chain-reaction collision involving four cars erupted.
First Responders Find Victim Trapped Under Vehicle
Emergency crews arriving at the scene found a person pinned under one of the wrecked vehicles. Video from the scene captures Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters carefully using a jack to lift the car and assess the victim’s condition.
Despite rescue efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County medical examiner was called to handle identification and continue investigation protocols. Officials have not yet released the victim’s name or additional details.
Traffic Impact and Investigation Underway
The CHP issued a Sigalert at 2:38 a.m. that temporarily closed all northbound lanes of the freeway. Traffic was rerouted onto White Oak Avenue, creating significant backups in the early morning hours. Though two lanes reopened shortly after, congestion lingered in the area.
Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the initial disabled vehicle and the resulting crash. No information has been released about possible charges or further injuries at this time.
Deadly Crashes on California Freeways Remain a Safety Concern
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed on busy California highways like the 101 Freeway, a major route connecting Los Angeles suburbs. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when encountering disabled vehicles or emergency responders on the road, especially during overnight hours.
For Montana and U.S. drivers, the crash underscores the ongoing importance of freeway safety measures and awareness of rapid traffic changes that often lead to severe collisions. The 101 Freeway scene will remain under close observation as the investigation progresses.
What to Watch For Next
Authorities plan to release more details once the medical examiner completes identification of the deceased, and the CHP concludes interviews with involved drivers and witnesses. Traffic delays should improve as cleanup continues through the day.
Montana Insider will monitor updates on this developing story to provide timely information as it becomes available.
“The cause of this tragic collision remains under investigation, and we urge drivers to remain vigilant and cautious on all California freeways,” said a CHP spokesperson.
