Available 
Los Angeles, CA (February 16, 2026) – The California Highway Patrol has identified the person killed in Sunday evening’s crash on the southbound 405 Fwy near the 10 Fwy as the unborn child of a pregnant woman involved in the collision. The crash was reported just after 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 15 in the Sawtelle area of West Los Angeles. Authorities say the pregnant woman was transported to a nearby hospital following the crash. Medical personnel later confirmed that the fetus was pronounced deceased. Officials stated that the exact cause of death remains under investigation and it has not yet been confirmed whether it was directly caused by injuries sustained in the crash. The broader circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether it involved a hit-and-run, are still being reviewed by investigators.
Key Details
- Location: 405 Fwy SB near 10 Fwy, Los Angeles, CA
- Reported: Sunday, February 15 just after 6 p.m.
- Type: Traffic Collision Under Investigation
- Fatality: Unborn child of pregnant woman involved in crash
- Response: CHP and Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics
What We Know So Far
- The pregnant woman was transported to a hospital following the crash.
- The unborn child was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
- CHP continues to investigate the cause of the collision and the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether the unborn child’s death was directly caused by the crash.
- The specific events leading up to the collision.
- Whether additional vehicles were involved.
Local Context
The southbound 405 Fwy near the 10 Fwy interchange in West Los Angeles is one of the region’s busiest freeway corridors, particularly during evening travel hours. The Sawtelle area sits near major merging lanes and transition ramps that connect drivers to Santa Monica, Culver City, and downtown Los Angeles. Crashes in this stretch often prompt significant traffic disruptions and extended investigations due to the high volume of vehicles and complex roadway design. Emergency crews must coordinate closely to manage both medical response and freeway safety during such incidents.
What to Do Next
- If you witness a crash, call 911 and provide precise location details to dispatchers.
- Slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles on a freeway.
- Preserve any dashcam footage that may assist investigators.
- Seek medical evaluation after a crash, even if injuries are not immediately apparent.
FAQ
Q: Can investigations determine whether a crash caused a medical fatality?
A: Yes. Medical examiners and investigators review medical records, crash evidence, and other factors to determine whether a fatality was directly related to the collision.
Q: Why might details remain unconfirmed after a serious crash?
A: Authorities must verify medical findings, examine evidence, and complete formal reports before confirming the exact cause and sequence of events.
Q: Who leads investigations involving freeway fatalities?
A: On state highways and freeways, the California Highway Patrol typically leads the investigation, often working alongside local fire and medical agencies.
