Two juveniles were killed and a driver was arrested in a Christmas Day crash on the Golden State (5) Freeway in Lebec, near the Kern County line, authorities said Saturday.
The crash occurred just before 3 p.m. Thursday on the northbound Golden State Freeway south of Vista Del Lago Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Arriving officers spotted a gold Toyota RAV4 in the center median with one person waiting nearby and a blue Nissan Rogue, the CHP stated.
The preliminary investigation revealed the Nissan’s driver lost control of the SUV and crashed into the rear of the Toyota, causing three juveniles to be ejected from the Nissan, the CHP stated.
Despite lifesaving efforts, two of the children died at the scene and the Nissan driver, identified as Jorge Preciado, was arrested for suspicion of felony child endangerment, the CHP reported. He was booked into the Los Angeles County sheriff’s Santa Clarita station.
“Today’s loss of two young lives is heartbreaking,” said CHP Capt. B. Purvis. “This is an important reminder that child safety seats are of utmost importance in providing safety on the roadway.”
One of the children was also named Jorge Preciado, according to the Medical Examiner’s office. He was 9 years old. The name of the other child was not yet released.