Hesperia, CA (December 13, 2024) – The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office has identified Mark Alan Blackburn Jr., 32, of Pinon Hills, as the victim of a fiery crash on the southbound 15 Freeway in Hesperia on Friday, December 13, 2024.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 11:20 p.m. near Joshua Street when a 2014 Mazda 3, driven by Blackburn, collided with the rear of a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia, towing a 1973 P60 trailer. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the semi had slowed due to traffic congestion from nearby construction when the Mazda struck the trailer for unknown reasons.
The impact caused the Mazda to catch fire. Despite efforts by the semi-driver and a Good Samaritan to rescue Blackburn, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. Emergency responders from San Bernardino County Fire extinguished the fire, but Blackburn was pronounced dead at the scene. The 24-year-old truck driver from Montebello was uninjured.
Investigation: CHP officials stated that neither drugs nor alcohol are suspected factors in the crash, which remains under investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic incident raises important legal considerations regarding potential causes and contributing factors.
- Driver Behavior: Drivers must operate their vehicles carefully, especially in areas with construction and slowing traffic. Questions about visibility, reaction time, and whether signage adequately warned of the slowdown may arise. Investigators will assess whether the truck’s position or the truck driver’s sudden braking contributed to the crash.
- Roadway and Construction Zone Safety: Construction zones can present hazards such as unclear signage, poor lighting, or abrupt lane closures. If road conditions or traffic management played a role in the collision, liability could extend to the construction company or local agencies overseeing the project.
- Mechanical Failure: A possible mechanical failure, such as defective brakes or other critical vehicle components, may have prevented the Mazda from stopping in time. A thorough vehicle inspection will help determine whether faulty equipment contributed to the crash. A manufacturer, repair shop, or parts distributor may be held accountable under product liability laws if this is the case.
Wrongful Death Claims: The family of Mark Alan Blackburn Jr. may consider a wrongful death claim if evidence suggests negligence on the part of another party.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mark Alan Blackburn Jr. during this difficult time.
Source: Victor Valley News Group