A tragic multi-vehicle collision on the Foothill (210) Freeway in the Shadow Hills area of Los Angeles has claimed the life of Bryan Ceja, a 13-year-old boy whose death has left family, friends, and the wider community in deep mourning.
Bryan was identified Tuesday by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office following the devastating crash, which occurred Sunday evening and also left six other people injured. The collision was first reported to the California Highway Patrol at approximately 7:53 p.m. on the westbound lanes of the 210 Freeway, just east of the Sunland Boulevard off-ramp.
According to authorities, the crash involved multiple vehicles and resulted in catastrophic damage. Witnesses told investigators that a black SUV or pickup truck had been traveling at a high rate of speed, weaving in and out of traffic moments before the collision. The chain-reaction crash caused two of the vehicles involved to roll over, creating a chaotic and dangerous scene that temporarily shut down the entire freeway.
Emergency responders from the California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles Fire Department arrived quickly. Paramedics transported a 40-year-old man, a 30-year-old woman, and a 61-year-old man to area hospitals in at least serious condition, according to LAFD spokesperson Margaret Stewart. Two additional patients were taken to hospitals with injuries not believed to be life-threatening, while another individual declined medical transport at the scene.
Due to the severity of the crash, all westbound lanes of the Foothill Freeway were blocked, prompting the CHP to issue a SigAlert at 8:14 p.m. The No. 1 lane reopened around 10 p.m., while all remaining lanes were not fully reopened until approximately 12:50 a.m. Monday, underscoring the magnitude of the incident and the extensive cleanup and investigation required.
Bryan’s death has cast a heavy shadow over the community. At just 13 years old, he had his entire life ahead of him—dreams yet to be realized, milestones yet to be reached, and memories yet to be made. While details about Bryan’s life have not been publicly shared, those who knew him describe the loss as unimaginable, a heartbreaking reminder of how suddenly tragedy can strike.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No further details regarding potential charges or fault have been released at this time.
GoFundMe Created to Support Bryan Ceja’s Family
In the wake of this devastating loss, a GoFundMe campaign has been created to support Bryan Ceja’s family as they navigate an incredibly painful and overwhelming time. The fundraiser aims to help cover funeral and memorial expenses, as well as provide financial relief as the family copes with the emotional and practical challenges that follow such a sudden tragedy.
Community members, friends, and compassionate strangers have already begun sharing messages of sympathy and support, demonstrating the profound impact Bryan’s life—and his loss—has had on those around him. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and kindness during this heartbreaking period.
