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Encino, CA (April 25, 2026) – One person died early Saturday, April 25, after a chain-reaction crash on the northbound 101 Fwy in Encino. The incident occurred shortly before 2:00 a.m. in the fast lane just south of White Oak Ave.
Emergency units responded after reports of a disabled black sedan blocking the No. 1 lane with hazard lights on. A person had exited the vehicle moments later and was on the roadway when a multi-vehicle collision occurred.
Authorities reported that four vehicles were involved in the crash. News footage from the scene showed one person trapped under a vehicle before being pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the deceased has not been released.
Traffic was heavily impacted, with northbound lanes initially fully closed and later reduced as cleanup progressed. All lanes were reopened by around 9:00 a.m.
The cause of the initial breakdown and subsequent crash has not been determined.
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 Chain-Reaction Freeway Crashes Can Develop
Chain-reaction crashes on freeways often begin with a stopped or disabled vehicle in an active lane. When traffic is moving at highway speed, drivers may have limited time to react to sudden obstacles ahead.
Situations become more dangerous when occupants exit a disabled vehicle and remain on the roadway. Even brief exposure in active lanes can increase risk, especially in low-light conditions during early morning hours.
Multi-vehicle impacts can follow quickly if approaching drivers are unable to slow down or change lanes safely. Factors such as visibility, traffic speed, and lane blockage often contribute to how these events escalate on major highways.
