Nissan Rogue rear ends Toyota RAV4 in centre median near Vista Del Lago Road
December 25, 2025 | Los Angeles, CA
A devastating collision on Interstate 5 claimed the lives of two children when a northbound Nissan Rogue rear-ended a stopped Toyota RAV4 in the center median south of Vista Del Lago Road.
Jorge Preciado was arrested on suspicion of felony child endangerment after a Nissan Rogue rear-ended a Toyota RAV4 on northbound Interstate 5 south of Vista Del Lago Road, killing two minors.
What Happened in the Crash?
The California Highway Patrol reported the incident occurred around 2:56 p.m. A Toyota RAV4 had come to a stop in the median when it was struck from behind by a Nissan Rogue operated by Jorge Preciado. The crash caused the Nissan to lose control, resulting in three minors being ejected from the vehicle.
First responders attempted lifesaving measures, but two of the minors were declared deceased at the scene. The third minor's condition remains undisclosed pending further updates. Preciado was taken into custody on suspicion of felony child endangerment as authorities investigate the factors contributing to the loss of control.
- Date and Time: Dec. 25, 2025, around 2:56 p.m.
- Location: Interstate 5, south of Vista Del Lago Road, Los Angeles County
- Vehicles Involved: Nissan Rogue, driven by Jorge Preciado, and Toyota RAV4
- Injuries/Fatalities: Two children killed, one minor injured and ejected
- Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
- Status: Investigation ongoing, and Preciado arrested
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Rear-end collisions like this one often stem from factors such as distracted driving, speeding, or impairment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that such crashes are among the most common on U.S. highways.
Common Causes of Fatal Crashes (NHTSA Data, 2018) |
Percentage of Incidents |
|---|
Speeding |
26% |
Alcohol/Drug Influence |
25% |
Failure to Stay in Lane |
12% |
Failure to Yield Right of Way |
8% |
Distracted Driving |
8% |
This table highlights key contributors to roadway fatalities, underscoring the need for vigilant driving practices.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on navigating the aftermath of motor vehicle incidents in cases such as this.
“Crashes involving ejections and multiple vehicles demand a thorough independent review to secure evidence and support affected parties,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “This includes re-examining witness statements, reviewing any available video footage, and analyzing communication records of those involved to build a clear picture.”
Key takeaways from analyst guidance:
- Preserve evidence through professional investigation to protect legal interests.
- Attorneys can assist in coordinating with official investigations while advocating for families.
- Focus on broader patterns in highway safety to prevent future tragedies.
“In the wake of such crashes, ensuring rights are upheld is crucial for those effected,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “This involves tracking developments in the official inquiry and pursuing compensation for losses like companionship and emotional hardship.”
The CHP anticipates releasing a comprehensive report upon completion of its examination into the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Families of those lost in this tragedy may explore options for wrongful death claims. These can address damages related to loss of companionship, suffering, and distress. Relatives are encouraged to consult with legal professionals to stay informed on the investigation progress and safeguard their entitlements.
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).