Lebec, CA (January 5, 2026) – Authorities have identified 6-year-old Jayden Preciado, of Lynwood, as the second young victim killed in a tragic Christmas Day crash on the northbound 5 Freeway near Lebec, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The fatal crash occurred just before 3:00 p.m. on December 25 on the Golden State Freeway, south of Vista Del Lago Rd. The California Highway Patrol reported that a blue Nissan Rogue lost control and slammed into the rear of a gold Toyota Rav4 that was stopped in the center median.
Three minors riding in the Rogue were ejected during the collision. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders, 6-year-old Jayden and his 9-year-old brother, Jorge Preciado, were both pronounced dead at the scene.
The boys’ father, 28-year-old Jorge Preciado of Long Beach, was driving the Nissan at the time of the crash. He was arrested and booked into the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station on charges of vehicular manslaughter. Authorities have not released further details about his current custody status or whether additional charges may be filed.
The condition of other involved parties has not been publicly disclosed, and the incident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Preciado family and all who have been affected by this heartbreaking loss.
