Porter Ranch, California (March 28, 2026) — A 22-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a crash Saturday night in the Porter Ranch area of Los Angeles when his motorcycle collided with a car making a U-turn, according to authorities.
Officials identified the deceased as Kevin Montiel.
The crash happened at about 11:00 p.m. on Reseda Boulevard near Beaufait Avenue.
Incident Details: According to the Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Traffic Bureau, the driver of a car was making a U-turn from northbound Reseda Boulevard to the southbound side when the vehicle was struck broadside by a motorcycle. Police said the motorcycle rider, later identified as Kevin Montiel, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Office of Medical Examiner said Montiel died from blunt force injuries. Public reports have not identified the driver of the car or stated whether that driver was injured. Authorities have also not released any additional details about the events leading up to the collision beyond the reported U-turn.
Investigation: The crash remains under investigation. In a fatal motorcycle crash involving a U-turn, investigators typically focus on visibility, right-of-way, speed, and the timing of the turn. One key question will likely be whether the driver of the car turned into the motorcycle’s path when it was unsafe to do so.
Crash reconstruction may include analysis of impact damage, roadway evidence, sightlines, lighting conditions, and witness statements. Investigators may also examine whether the motorcycle had enough time and distance to avoid the collision once the car began turning. In cases like this, even a few seconds can matter a great deal in determining how the crash happened and whether it could have been prevented.
Because motorcycles are smaller and often harder for turning drivers to judge, left turns and U-turns are among the most dangerous situations riders face. A careful investigation can help clarify whether driver inattention, failure to yield, or some other factor caused the crash that took Kevin Montiel’s life.
Legal Considerations: Motorcycle crashes involving a car turning across a rider’s path often raise significant liability questions. Even when police have not yet determined fault, early evidence can be critical. Vehicle inspections, witness accounts, and any nearby video footage may help establish exactly when the U-turn began and whether the collision was caused by a failure to make that maneuver safely.
If evidence indicates that the driver performed an unsafe U-turn or did not yield the right-of-way, Montiel’s family might be eligible to file a wrongful death claim for compensation for funeral costs, burial expenses, lost financial support, and the loss of love, companionship, and guidance. Additionally, pursuing a civil case may reveal details often not disclosed during the initial traffic investigation.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Kevin Montiel.
Source: MyNewsLA