Five people died when a car slammed into an attenuator and burst into flames on the 710 Freeway in the Long Beach area Monday morning, authorities said.
The crash occurred around 4 a.m. in northbound lanes near the 91 Freeway interchange, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Authorities say the driver of the Hyundai Sonata appeared to be speeding when they slammed into the barriers, causing major damage to the vehicle which was followed by an explosion.
“Our officers along with the fire department responded to the scene and determined this crash to be a solo crash resulting in five deceased parties,” CHP Officer Angelia Gonzales said.
Very little information about the five people who died was available early Monday afternoon.
By Monday afternoon, two of the victims had been identified: George Dobbs and Ariahh Slemaker, both 15 of Long Beach.
A male who survived the initial crash and explosion was transported to a local hospital with significant injuries, Gonzales said.
The crash forced several lanes of the 710 Freeway to be closed for roughly six hours.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
“We ask that all witnesses to this crash come forward,” said Gonzales.
