Fatal Crash Reported Near Atlantic Avenue and Sportsman Drive in Compton, Officials Say
COMPTON, CA, (June 27, 2025) - Two people were killed and another seriously injured following a three-vehicle crash Friday night in Compton, authorities said.
Ronnie Draper, 50, and Christopher Hernandez, 24, were killed in a multi-vehicle crash Friday night in Compton, authorities said.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner identified the deceased victims as 50-year-old Ronnie Draper and 24-year-old Christopher Hernandez.
The crash occurred around 9:17 p.m. near Atlantic Avenue and Sportsman Drive, beneath the 710 Freeway. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Compton station, a vehicle traveling southbound on Atlantic Avenue collided with a second car. That vehicle then continued traveling and struck a third car.
Draper and Hernandez—occupants of the first and third vehicles—were pronounced dead at the scene. A person riding in the second car was transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.
Authorities said the investigation into the crash remains ongoing. No additional details were immediately released.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Each year, thousands of Americans lose their lives in motor vehicle accidents. In 2024 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 39,345 people died in traffic-related crashes. Experts say the crisis is driven by a combination of factors—including increased cellphone use behind the wheel and a rise in the number of large trucks and SUVs on the road.
While law enforcement continues to investigate the cause and liability in serious crashes, legal experts stress the importance of independent investigations.
“In addition to the diligent work of police, an attorney can re-interview critical witnesses, secure and review surveillance footage, and obtain phone or texting records from the at-fault driver,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal and a national legal analyst for The Legal Advocate.
“Time is of the essence in cases like this,” Bond added. “The victim’s family must act quickly to ensure all evidence is preserved and properly reviewed.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the results of the investigation, the family of the individual killed in the crash may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Such claims can help recover damages for loss of companionship, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and the financial impact of a sudden loss.
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional tragedy but often a significant economic hardship as well,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.
“If you have lost someone due to another party’s negligence, it’s essential to contact a wrongful death attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help secure the justice you deserve,” Bond added.
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).