Sun Valley, CA (May 27, 2025) – A 70-year-old man died Monday afternoon after his car collided with a Los Angeles Police Department vehicle in the Sun Valley neighborhood, according to LAPD officials.
Accident Details: The crash occurred just before 2 p.m. near the intersection of Saticoy Street and Cleon Avenue. Officers from the North Hollywood Division were driving east on Saticoy Street in response to a domestic violence restraining order call when a Honda reportedly pulled out from a side street in front of them.
The LAPD cruiser struck the Honda in a T-bone collision. Emergency crews responded to the scene and found the elderly driver of the Honda trapped inside. First responders determined that the man could not be revived and pronounced him dead at the scene.
Both LAPD officers were transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment. Their injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving police vehicles raise complex legal questions, particularly when injury or death results. The investigation will likely focus on factors such as the officers’ speed, right-of-way, and use of lights and sirens. In cases where a responding unit strikes another vehicle, liability often depends on whether proper driving protocols were followed.
For the deceased man’s family, a wrongful death claim could be considered depending on the outcome of the investigation and any findings of fault.
Ongoing Investigation: LAPD officials confirmed that the officers were not involved in a pursuit at the time of the crash. “This was not a chase,” said Detective Meghan Aguilar. “They were responding to a completely unrelated radio call.”
Streets surrounding the crash site remained closed during the investigation, and authorities have not yet announced who may be at fault.
I extend my condolences to the family of the man who died in this crash and hope the injured officers recover fully.
Source: NBC Los Angeles