CHP Faces Lawsuit Over Fatal 605 Freeway Crash That Killed 4

Families of two crash victims have filed a claim against the California Highway Patrol. They allege officer negligence caused a fatal chain-reaction collision. The July incident on the 605 Freeway killed four people.

The claim could lead to a formal lawsuit against the state agency. According to KABC, the families seek accountability for their devastating loss.

Details of the Fatal 605 Freeway Incident

Four young adults were driving home from a concert on July 20. Their vehicle was rear-ended by a CHP patrol car on the 605 Freeway in Norwalk. The impact disabled their car in the fast lane.

Attorneys representing the families explained the subsequent events. They state the CHP officer moved his own vehicle to safety. He allegedly left the disabled car stranded in traffic.

A short time later, another driver struck the stationary vehicle. That collision resulted in a fiery crash that killed all four occupants. The victims were identified as Julie Hamori, 23, and Armand Del Campo, 24, and two others.

Thomas Feher is the attorney representing the grieving families. He stated at least seven minutes passed between the initial impact and the fatal crash. He also suggested the CHP officer may have left the scene during this critical window.

The families claim the officer failed to deploy warning flares or lights. They believe this negligence left the victims’ car as a “sitting duck” in fast-moving traffic.

Families Seek Answers and Accountability

Angie Reed, mother of Armand Del Campo, spoke at a news conference. She expressed the profound grief shared by all four families. Reed highlighted the frustration of unanswered questions surrounding the tragedy.

Julie Hamori and Armand Del Campo were engaged to be married. Hamori had already purchased her wedding dress, according to her aunt Kathy Stickel. The couple’s future was tragically cut short.

The California Highway Patrol issued a statement through KABC. They acknowledged the heartbreaking tragedy and expressed sympathy for the affected families. The agency confirmed both crashes remain under active investigation.

The CHP declined further comment due to the ongoing investigations. The claim filed by the families triggers a 45-day response period from the agency. If the claim is rejected, the families will be cleared to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

The California Highway Patrol wrongful death claim underscores serious questions about protocol and duty of care. This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of alleged negligence on busy roadways.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

What is the basis of the wrongful death claim against the CHP?

The families allege the CHP officer was negligent after the initial rear-end collision. They claim he failed to secure the scene or warn other drivers, leading to the fatal crash.

How many people died in the 605 Freeway crash?

Four people died in the chain-reaction collision. All were in the same vehicle that was initially struck by the CHP officer.

Has the CHP responded to the allegations?

The CHP issued a statement calling the incident a heartbreaking tragedy. They confirmed both crashes remain under investigation and declined further comment.

What happens after a claim is filed against a state agency?

The agency has 45 days to respond to the claim. If rejected, the claimants can then proceed with filing a formal lawsuit in court.

Was impaired driving a factor in this crash?

Reports indicate the second driver who caused the fatal collision was allegedly driving under the influence. This compounded the tragedy following the initial incident.

References: KABC