Available 
Carson, CA (January 21, 2026) – Authorities have identified the man killed in an early morning collision on the Gardena (91) Freeway in Carson as 38-year-old Matthew Hellums, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The fatal incident took place shortly before 12:38 a.m. on Monday, January 19, in the westbound lanes of the 91 Freeway just west of Central Ave. According to the California Highway Patrol, a minivan and a car collided for reasons that have not yet been made public. The crash resulted in both vehicles coming to rest in the HOV lane, blocking traffic and prompting a swift emergency response.
Paramedics and fire crews arrived on scene and confirmed that one of the occupants—later identified as Hellums—had died at the scene. Officials did not disclose which of the two vehicles Hellums had been in at the time of the crash.
Another individual involved in the collision was taken to a nearby hospital. The nature and severity of that person’s injuries have not been released.
CHP officers remained at the scene into the early morning hours, working to document evidence and clear the roadway. The cause of the crash remains under active investigation.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Matthew Hellums during this difficult time.
