Semi-truck loses control and strikes several vehicles on Golden State (5) Freeway
December 28, 2025 | Boyle Heights, CA
A fatal multi-vehicle accident on the Golden State Freeway in Boyle Heights claimed the life of Miriam Marroquin and injured multiple others early Sunday morning.
The California Highway Patrol confirmed the details of the fiery crash involving a semi-truck.
Miriam Marroquin, 60, died after a semi-truck lost control and caused a chain-reaction crash on the southbound Golden State Freeway in Boyle Heights.
What Happened in the Boyle Heights Crash?
The incident unfolded around 5:10 a.m. when a semi-truck lost control south of Fourth Street, slamming into several vehicles and sparking a chain-reaction collision. One vehicle burst into flames, leading to Marroquin's death at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified Marroquin as the victim who succumbed to her injuries.
- Location: Southbound Golden State (5) Freeway, south of Fourth Street, Boyle Heights, CA
- Date and Time: Dec. 28, 2025, approximately 5:10 a.m.
- Vehicles Involved: Semi-truck and at least nine passenger cars
- Casualties: One fatality, Miriam Marroquin, 60, at least 10 injuries
- Response: Victims transported to Adventist Health White Memorial Hospital and other local facilities
- Result: Southbound 5 Freeway to westbound 10 Freeway temporarily closed
Crash Statistics: Large Truck Accidents in the U.S.
Large trucks pose significant risks on highways due to their size and weight. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), truck-related fatalities highlight the need for thorough investigations.
Year |
Total Large Truck Crash Fatalities |
Source |
|---|
2022 |
4,764 |
IIHS |
2021 |
5,000+ (estimated) |
NHTSA |
Common Causes |
Driver fatigue, improper maneuvering, and speeding |
Data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) underscores that semi-trucks, weighing up to 80,000 pounds, amplify crash severity.
Why Do Semi-Truck Crashes Occur?
Factors contributing to such accidents often include loss of control, poor visibility, or mechanical failures. In this case, the semi-truck's instability triggered widespread damage. Ongoing CHP investigation aims to determine the exact cause.
Legal Insights on Commercial Vehicle Collisions
Newsline consulted national legal analysts for their perspective on incidents like this fiery multi-vehicle crash.
“Investigations into commercial vehicle crashes demand diverse resources to uncover the truth,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Trucking firms frequently deploy their own teams to sites, leveraging extensive tools to shield negligent drivers. A dedicated attorney safeguards victims' families by countering these efforts.”
- Accident reconstruction professionals help reconstruct circumstances for accurate liability assessment.
- Families may pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress.
- In cases such as this, preserving evidence is crucial against corporate defenses.
“The grief following a loved one's loss in a highway collision can be immense,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Protecting legal rights during the investigation ensures families receive the support they deserve.”
Next Steps in the Investigation
The CHP continues to investigate the Boyle Heights incident, focusing on the semi-truck's role. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(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).