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Woodland Hills, CA (April 23, 2026) – One person was killed and another injured in a crash early Wednesday morning on the northbound US-101 Fwy near Valley Cir Blvd in Woodland Hills.
The incident was reported around 1:26 a.m. and involved at least two vehicles, with early reports suggesting multiple impacts. Emergency units arrived to find heavily damaged vehicles and debris scattered across the highway.
Crews worked to remove one victim from a vehicle using specialized tools. Another person, believed to be elderly, was seen conscious and taken to a hospital, though their current condition has not been confirmed.
All northbound lanes were closed for several hours as crews worked at the scene, leading to significant traffic delays. The roadway was later reopened at approximately 5:10 a.m.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Multi-Impact Crashes Can Occur on Busy Highways
Multi-impact crashes can happen when an initial collision blocks lanes or leaves vehicles disabled in active traffic. Other drivers approaching the scene may not have enough time to stop, leading to additional impacts.
Low visibility conditions, such as nighttime driving, can make it harder to detect hazards ahead. Headlights, debris, or stopped vehicles in travel lanes can increase the risk of further collisions.
Speed also affects how quickly drivers can react. At highway speeds, even a brief delay in braking or steering can lead to another crash, especially in areas with heavy traffic.
