Hacienda Heights, CA (May 11, 2025) — A collision between a tour bus and a disabled SUV on State Route 60 in Los Angeles County early Sunday morning left one person dead and 32 others injured, including two critically, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Incident Details: The crash occurred just after 5:00 a.m. on May 11 in the westbound lanes of SR-60 near Azusa Avenue, when a tour bus carrying 63 passengers struck a stationary Nissan Pathfinder that had broken down in a travel lane. According to the CHP, the impact caused the SUV to burst into flames, killing its passenger, who was trapped inside. The bus then veered across several lanes and crashed into a guardrail on the right shoulder.
The identity of the SUV’s passenger has not yet been released. The bus en route from Indio to Koreatown in Los Angeles sustained extensive front-end damage, though the fire did not spread to the vehicle. Emergency crews transported 32 people to local hospitals, the majority with minor to moderate injuries, while two individuals were critically injured. The bus driver was identified as Sui Sheng Du.
Witnesses described chaos and panic in the aftermath. One passenger recounted being thrown down the aisle of the bus and covered in glass, while others described cries for help and widespread confusion.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: CHP’s preliminary investigation found that the tour bus rear-ended the disabled Nissan, which had stopped for unknown reasons. Authorities confirmed that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash. However, the cause of the SUV’s breakdown and whether it had hazard lights activated are still under review. Investigators will also look into vehicle placement, visibility, or the tour company’s safety protocols.
Depending on findings, the victim’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Injured passengers may also file personal injury claims to seek compensation for medical expenses, trauma, and long-term care.
Source: PEOPLE