by Long Beach, California — A Christmas week crash in Long Beach has left a family grieving after a teenage passenger died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle collision, according to police.
The crash occurred around 8:20 p.m. on December 23 near the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and Wardlow Road, a busy stretch frequently traveled during evening hours. Authorities say the collision involved a 2007 Saturn Aura and a 2021 Jeep Wrangler, both traveling southbound at the time of impact.
Teen Passenger Dies After Being Hospitalized
Officers from the Long Beach Police Department responded to the scene and found a 16-year-old female passenger and a 17-year-old male driver inside the Saturn. Both teens were transported to a local hospital in critical condition due to the severity of their injuries.
Investigators later confirmed that the 16-year-old girl died on Christmas Eve, less than 24 hours after the crash. Police are not releasing her identity due to her age.
The 17-year-old driver remains under medical care. Authorities have not released an update on his current condition.
Other Driver Uninjured, Cooperated With Police
The driver of the Jeep Wrangler involved in the collision was not injured and remained at the scene. Police said the driver cooperated fully with investigators, and no immediate charges were announced as of Thursday.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, with detectives continuing to review evidence and witness accounts.
Preliminary Findings Point to Lane Change
According to preliminary findings, both vehicles were traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard when the Saturn attempted to change lanes. During that maneuver, the Saturn reportedly collided with the Jeep, triggering the crash that caused critical injuries to the teenage occupants.
Investigators said the sequence of events is still being examined, including vehicle positioning, traffic conditions, and driver behavior leading up to the impact.
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Speed and Distraction May Be Factors
Police noted that speed and distracted driving may have been contributing factors in the collision. Officials did not specify whether cellphone use or other distractions were involved, but they confirmed those possibilities are part of the ongoing investigation.
Crashes involving young drivers often prompt closer review of reaction time, awareness, and roadway decision-making, particularly during holiday periods when traffic patterns and fatigue can change.
Holiday Week Raises Road Safety Concerns
The fatal crash occurred during a period when roads are often busier than usual. Christmas week typically sees increased evening traffic, with many drivers running errands, attending gatherings, or traveling longer distances after dark.
Law enforcement agencies frequently warn that holiday distractions, speeding, and reduced visibility can sharply increase crash risk — especially for inexperienced drivers.
Investigation Continues
Detectives with the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail are continuing to gather information, including reviewing surveillance footage, vehicle damage, and possible witness statements.
Police are asking anyone who may have seen the collision or events leading up to it to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail at 562-570-7358.
A Tragic Loss During the Holidays
The death of a teenager during what is traditionally a time of celebration has shaken the local community. Authorities say the incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly routine drives can turn tragic, particularly when speed or distraction enters the picture.
As the investigation continues, police are urging drivers — especially young motorists — to slow down, remain attentive, and understand that a single decision behind the wheel can have lifelong consequences.
What steps do you think could help improve safety for young drivers during busy holiday weeks? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
