Burbank, CA (October 19, 2025) – A wrong-way collision left one person dead early Sunday and shut down all northbound lanes of the 5 Freeway at Alameda Avenue.
Accident Details: Authorities received reports around 3:45 a.m. that a vehicle traveling south in the northbound lanes collided with another car on the Golden State Freeway near Alameda Avenue. A SigAlert was issued at 4:28 a.m. and later canceled at 8:46 a.m. after lanes reopened. Fire officials confirmed the fatality at approximately 3:57 a.m. All involved vehicles remained at the scene as first responders provided aid and secured the area during the extended closure.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the wrong-way driving that precipitated the crash. Investigators are reviewing physical evidence, vehicle trajectories, and potential impairment indicators. They will also evaluate 911 calls, witness statements, and any available freeway camera footage to establish where the wrong-way entry occurred and how long the driver was traveling against traffic before impact. Preliminary reports shared by local outlets indicated alcohol may be a factor; final determinations will depend on toxicology and CHP’s full collision report.
Legal Considerations: Wrong-way collisions typically implicate negligence per se because they involve travel against posted direction. If impairment is confirmed, additional civil exposure can follow, including punitive damages in certain cases. Families of those killed may seek recovery for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship through a wrongful death claim. Claims from injured motorists often rely on timely preservation of evidence, including vehicle data and freeway video.
My thoughts are with the family and anyone harmed by this catastrophic wrong-way crash.
Source: KTLA