Early Thursday morning, a tragic crash on the southbound 5 Freeway near the Lincoln exit in Anaheim claimed the lives of three teenagers from Orange County. The victims – 17‑year‑old Victor Hugo Delgado, 16‑year‑old Miguel Gutierrez‑Avalos, both of Santa Ana, and 15‑year‑old Levi Jacob Flores – were traveling together in a white Ford Edge when the driver lost control and slammed into a metal guardrail and a concrete pillar shortly after 3:15 a.m.
Investigation details
California Highway Patrol investigators confirmed that none of the three teens were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Skid marks left on the roadway were still visible the following day, indicating a sudden, high‑speed departure from the travel lane. While the exact cause remains under review, CHP officials said speed is a potential factor and have not ruled out the involvement of drugs or alcohol.
Community response
Friends and family gathered at the crash site on Friday to mourn the loss. Anthony Lopez, a close friend of Levi Flores, recalled the bond the teens shared, saying, “Levi was a funny person. We used to ride mini‑bikes together every day, even all the way to L.A. It’s devastating how he died so young.” The community’s grief was palpable as onlookers noted the lingering tire marks that serve as a stark reminder of the tragedy.
Survivor’s condition
Four occupants were in the vehicle at the time of the collision. Two of the teens died at the scene, while the third was rushed to a hospital and later passed away on Thursday. The sole survivor remains in critical condition, receiving intensive medical care.
Safety reminder
The crash underscores the importance of seat‑belt use, especially among young drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by about 45 percent for front‑seat occupants. Local law‑enforcement agencies continue to urge parents and teens to model safe driving habits and to avoid speeding, impaired driving, and distracted travel.
Looking ahead
CHP investigators will continue to examine vehicle data, witness statements, and any toxicology reports to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. The agency has asked anyone with additional information to contact the Anaheim Police Department.
Our thoughts remain with the families of Victor, Miguel, and Levi, as well as the community that has rallied around them during this heartbreaking time.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
