South Los Angeles, California (October 30, 2025) — Authorities have identified the pedestrian struck and killed early Thursday morning on the northbound Harbor (110) Freeway in South Los Angeles as 38-year-old Rafael Orosco. The crash prompted a major traffic backup during the morning commute and shut down several northbound lanes for nearly three hours.
Incident Details: The California Highway Patrol received reports of the collision at 5:53 a.m. near the Manchester Avenue offramp. When officers arrived, they found Orosco fatally injured in the roadway. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner responded to the scene, and Caltrans crews were called to assist with clearing debris.
AIR7 HD traffic cameras showed miles of congestion in both directions, with northbound lanes heavily impacted and southbound drivers slowing as they passed the scene. A SigAlert was issued, and three center lanes remained closed until just before 9:30 a.m. Details about how Orosco came to be in the roadway have not been released yet.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Officers are reviewing physical evidence from the scene, including skid marks, vehicle debris, and the positioning of Orosco’s remains, to determine how the impact occurred. Investigators will also examine nighttime lighting conditions, driver visibility at dawn, and traffic flow at the time of the collision.
In pedestrian freeway fatalities, investigators typically analyze whether the driver had sufficient time and distance to react, whether the victim was attempting to cross lanes, and whether any mechanical issues or distractions contributed to the incident. CHP may also review dashcam recordings, CHP aircraft footage, or nearby Caltrans surveillance cameras to reconstruct the incident. Toxicology testing for the driver and a full medical examination of the victim are standard components of the investigative process. A thorough reconstruction helps answer the difficult questions families are left with after such a sudden loss.
Legal Considerations: Pedestrian fatalities on freeways are rare but deeply traumatic events, often leaving families without clear answers as to why their loved one was exposed to such danger. Under California law, drivers have a duty to maintain a proper lookout and operate their vehicles at a safe speed for road conditions at that time. If a driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent, civil liability may arise, even in situations where the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk or pedestrian zone.
For the family of Rafael Orosco, a wrongful death claim may allow the family to seek accountability and compensation for funeral expenses, emotional suffering, and the long-term loss of his companionship. While no legal action can undo the tragedy, it can provide a measure of stability as loved ones navigate the aftermath of a sudden and unexpected death.
I extend my deepest condolences to the Orosco family and friends as they mourn his devastating loss.