405 Freeway in Sawtelle closed due to deadly motorcycle crash

The southbound lanes of the 405 Freeway in Los Angeles’ Sawtelle area were closed for an extended period on Sunday morning following a multiple-vehicle collision that tragically resulted in one fatality and several injuries. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. close to Santa Monica Boulevard, just before the junction with the 10 Freeway. Authorities stated that at least four vehicles and a motorcycle were part of the collision. While initial reports indicate that the motorcyclist lost their life, their identity has not yet been confirmed. In the aftermath of the crash, the victim's body seemed to be on the roadway, potentially being hit by passing vehicles. Emergency responders attended to two more injured individuals at the scene. KTLA’s Omar Lewis reported that both CHP and LAPD investigators were present well into the morning to manage the debris spread across multiple lanes. Footage from the scene displayed badly damaged vehicles, emergency personnel surrounding the wreckage, and authorities collecting information about the incident. Eyewitnesses recounted a frenzied scene as smoke billowed from the freeway, and drivers stopped in confusion. One individual described their immediate reaction upon noticing what seemed like a body on the road. Eventually, traffic was redirected off the freeway onto Santa Monica Boulevard, causing significant congestion for early morning commuters. The lanes were reopened by 7:30 a.m. Sunday once the crash site had been cleared, though traffic delays persisted. An inquiry into the cause of the crash is ongoing.