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Los Angeles, CA (May 13, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash in South Los Angeles killed one person and left two others critically injured. The collision occurred on Tuesday, May 12, around 2 in the afternoon, near Vermont Street and Colden Avenue.
At least six cars were involved in the crash. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, and two others were in critical condition following the collision.
Video from the scene showed severe damage across multiple vehicles, including one car that appeared to have been cut in half. A black SUV had overturned and come to rest on a center divider on Vermont Ave. Debris was spread throughout the intersection.
The crash took place in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County. 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 person who lost their life.
What Makes Multi-Car Crashes in Los Angeles So Dangerous?
Multi-vehicle crashes in Los Angeles can turn deadly quickly, especially at busy urban intersections where traffic moves in several directions at once. When a single collision triggers a chain reaction involving multiple cars, the force multiplies, and the risk of catastrophic injury rises sharply.
South Los Angeles intersections often carry high volumes of both passenger vehicles and larger cars like SUVs, which can cause devastating damage when they strike smaller vehicles or overturn. The size and weight differences between vehicles in a multi-car pileup can determine the severity of each person’s injuries.
Debris spread across an intersection after a serious crash also creates secondary hazards for emergency responders and bystanders. Clearing and documenting a scene like this takes time, which is why these incidents often result in extended road closures.
