Golden State Freeway crash kills one, injures five men
January 18, 2026 | Los Feliz, CA
A tragic multi-vehicle collision unfolded early on Jan. 18 along the northbound lanes of Interstate 5 in Los Feliz, California, claiming the life of one individual and sending five others to the hospital, as reported by the California Highway Patrol.
Moses Jimenez, 28, was ejected from a vehicle and died at the scene in a multi-vehicle crash on the northbound Golden State (5) Freeway at Los Feliz Boulevard.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office confirmed the fatality as 28-year-old Moses Jimenez, who was ejected from a vehicle during the incident near Los Feliz Boulevard around 3:20 a.m. Details on Jimenez's hometown remain undisclosed at this time.
Authorities have not specified the exact number of vehicles involved, but the crash resulted in severe consequences for those affected. Emergency responders transported five men to local medical facilities: a 28-year-old, a 61-year-old, a 35-year-old, and two 22-year-olds. Among them, the 28-year-old and 61-year-old sustained serious injuries requiring immediate attention.
The California Highway Patrol continues its thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this deadly wreck on the Golden State Freeway.
What Happened in the Los Feliz Interstate 5 Crash?
Key details from the incident include:
- Date and Time: Jan. 18, approximately 3:20 a.m.
- Location: Northbound Interstate 5 at Los Feliz Boulevard, Los Feliz, CA
- Victim: Moses Jimenez, 28, pronounced dead at the scene after ejection
- Injuries: Five men hospitalized, and two with serious conditions, ages 28 and 61
- Agency Involved: California Highway Patrol leading the investigation
- Vehicles: Multi-vehicle collision, and exact count pending investigation
This crash underscores the dangers of early-morning freeway travel, particularly in urban areas like Los Angeles, where traffic can be unpredictable.
Why Do Multi-Vehicle Crashes Like This Occur on Interstate 5?
Multi-vehicle accidents on major highways such as Interstate 5 often stem from a combination of driver errors and environmental factors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), human behavior plays a central role in most roadway fatalities.
Common contributors include:
- Speeding beyond posted limits
- Impairment from alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving is frequently linked to mobile device usage
- Poor visibility or sudden maneuvers in high-traffic zones
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, NHTSA data indicated 8,055 motor vehicle collision deaths nationwide, highlighting a persistent rise in such tragedies.
Factor |
Contribution to Crashes |
Source |
|---|
Speeding |
29% of fatal crashes |
NHTSA (2025) |
Distracted Driving |
8% of fatalities |
CDC |
DUI |
31% of traffic deaths |
Federal Highway Administration |
Multi-Vehicle Incidents |
Often chain reactions on freeways |
CHP Reports |
This table, drawn from federal safety agencies, illustrates the pressing need for heightened awareness among drivers navigating routes like I-5.
Legal Insights on Multi-Vehicle Crash Investigations
In the wake of serious accidents, independent reviews can uncover critical details overlooked in initial reports. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, stresses the value of prompt, adept analysis.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond.
Key takeaways from such investigations include:
- Timely Evidence Gathering: Acting quickly preserves vital information before it degrades.
- Witness Reassessment: Fresh interviews can reveal inconsistencies or new perspectives.
- Digital Records: Phone data often provides undeniable proof of distractions or impairments.
- Efficiency for Families: Ensures comprehensive reviews without unnecessary delays.
Bond emphasizes that time is critical in these scenarios to support affected parties effectively.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims Following Fatal Crashes
Families affected by negligence in roadway incidents may pursue compensation for their losses. Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, notes the multifaceted effect of such tragedies.
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Formica. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”
Damages in wrongful death cases can cover:
- Loss of companionship and support
- Pain and suffering endured by the victim
- Emotional distress on surviving family members
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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).