Costa Mesa, California (October 30, 2025) — Authorities have identified the man killed in a two-vehicle collision Thursday morning in Costa Mesa as 45-year-old Rene Sanchez of Los Angeles. According to the Costa Mesa Police Department, Sanchez was ejected from his vehicle and died at the scene following the crash at Red Hill and McCormick avenues.
Incident Details: The collision occurred around 6:25 a.m. when Sanchez’s sedan was turning left from McCormick Avenue and collided with another sedan traveling north on Red Hill Avenue. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save Sanchez, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The other vehicle’s driver remained on site and cooperated fully with officers.
The crash prompted the temporary closure of the intersection and northbound Paularino Avenue for roughly three hours. Investigators documented the scene and cleared debris before reopening the roadway later in the morning.
Investigation: The Costa Mesa Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team continues to analyze the circumstances leading up to the collision. Authorities are reviewing potential contributing factors such as vehicle speed, signal timing, right-of-way, and visibility at the intersection. Investigators will also determine whether either driver may have violated the California Vehicle Code, which governs left turns and the requirement to yield to oncoming traffic.
Data from nearby traffic cameras and witness statements could provide additional clarity regarding the sequence of events. No charges or citations have been announced as of Thursday afternoon.
Legal Considerations: When a fatal collision occurs during a left turn, liability often depends on whether the turning driver had a clear and lawful opportunity to complete the maneuver. Multiple factors come into play, including traffic signals, the speed of oncoming vehicles, and the turning driver’s proper use of turn signals. Even when both drivers act within the law, misjudgment of speed or distance can have devastating consequences. The legal ramifications in such cases often involve detailed accident reconstruction, witness statements, and expert analysis to establish fault and assign responsibility.
In cases like this, victims’ families may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim under California law. These claims can help recover costs for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. An attorney experienced in car accident cases can also ensure that key evidence, such as signal data, eyewitness accounts, and surveillance footage, is preserved during the investigation process.
I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Rene Sanchez as they mourn this tragic loss.
Source: KTLA