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Sun Valley, California – A 70-year-old man lost his life and two police officers sustained injuries following a severe collision in Sun Valley on Monday, the Los Angeles Police Department reported.
According to investigators, preliminary evidence suggests that the man entered the intersection just as a police cruiser was responding to an emergency call. Authorities stated they will examine footage from the vehicle’s dashboard camera to better understand the sequence of events.
At the crash site, a memorial continues to grow in memory of the deceased, who has been identified by family as Jose Hernandez—a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.
The wrecked vehicle left at the scene bore the marks of the brutal impact, serving as a stark reminder of the crash’s force.
Heartbroken friends gathered in disbelief. They shared that Hernandez had recently marked his 70th birthday.
“He was like part of the family for many years,” said Carmen Ortega, a longtime friend who spoke in Spanish. She had known Hernandez for decades.
Moments before the crash, Hernandez had left Ortega’s home after picking up a cake for his wife. He never made it past the next intersection.
“I just heard a loud crash,” recalled Liessa Hall. “The car spun around and slammed into something over here. One of the officers got out, ran to the car, opened the door, and tried to help the driver—but he was already gone.”
The deadly crash occurred around 2 p.m. on Saticoy Street, near the intersection with Vineland Avenue. According to LAPD, the officers had their lights and sirens on while heading to a report of a domestic violence restraining order violation when their patrol unit struck a Honda Accord.
“They were traveling east on Saticoy, approaching Cleon Avenue, when a vehicle turned left in front of them. The police car hit the driver’s side of that vehicle,” explained Detective Meghan Aguilar of the LAPD.
Hernandez died at the scene.
The two officers involved—both 24 years old—were taken to the hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Authorities confirmed that the dashcam, which automatically activates when emergency lights and sirens are engaged, will be a key part of the investigation as they assess the officers’ speed and actions.
Local residents say the stretch of Saticoy where the crash occurred is known for frequent accidents.
“It’s almost expected now—there are always accidents around here,” said nearby resident Sergio Avelar. “But this is the first time I’ve seen one this serious. It just seems to be getting worse.”
Source: ABC7
Can You Claim Compensation When Someone Dies in an Accident Involving LAPD?
Losing a loved one in a tragic accident is devastating—especially when the crash involves law enforcement. If your family member was killed in a collision with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim to pursue justice and financial compensation.
While these cases are complex, they are not impossible. Claims involving police departments typically require proving negligence or misconduct, and navigating government liability laws. That’s why it’s crucial to work with experienced wrongful death attorneys who understand how to handle claims against public entities like LAPD.
What Can You Recover in a Wrongful Death Claim?
If the LAPD is found liable, surviving family members may be able to recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
- Lost financial contributions
- Medical bills related to the crash
- Pain and suffering
An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can help you gather evidence, navigate city procedures, and file a government claim within the required deadlines (often just six months from the date of the incident).
Call Megeredchian Law for a Free Consultation
At Megeredchian Law, we fight for families who have lost loved ones due to negligent or reckless actions—including those involving law enforcement vehicles. We understand the pain you’re going through and will guide you every step of the way.Call us at (866) 359-0807—we’re available 24/7 and we always pick up the phone. Hablamos Español.