One Fatality in Multi‑Vehicle Crash on Northbound 405 Through Sepulveda Pass

On a Tuesday afternoon that seemed no different from any other, the northbound 405 Freeway in the Sepulveda Pass turned into a scene of chaos. Around 2:30 p.m., witnesses reported a massive, multi‑vehicle smash‑up just past Getty Center Drive, and emergency crews were on the way in a hurry.

According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, at least five cars were tangled together in the collision. The wreckage stretched across several lanes, and the sight was both shocking and heartbreaking. While responders worked to untangle the mess, the grim reality became clear: one person, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Paramedics also tended to another individual who escaped with only minor injuries. That person was quickly evaluated and treated on‑site before being transported for further care. The rest of the drivers involved were fortunately lucky enough to walk away with bruises or no injuries at all.

Traffic northbound on the 405 ground to a halt as investigators and cleanup crews set up a perimeter. Aerial footage from local news channel AIR7 captured rows of ambulances and fire trucks lined up, while the remaining open lanes choked with a slow‑moving line of cars. Motorists were urged to seek alternate routes—many diverted to the 101 or surface streets, adding a layer of frustration to an already tense day.

By early evening, crews had cleared enough debris to allow traffic to move again, though the jam lingered for a while longer. By 6:30 p.m., all northbound lanes were officially reopened, and the freeway began to breathe a sigh of relief as commuters finally made it home.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Officials are reviewing dash‑cam footage, witness statements, and vehicle data to piece together what went wrong. Until the final report is out, the community is left to grapple with the loss and the lingering question of how such a terrible accident could happen on one of Los Angeles’ busiest arteries.