Fiery Long Beach car crash leaves four dead - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by David ZahniserFebruary 21, 2026
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A fiery car crash near Long Beach Airport early Saturday morning left four people dead. The single-vehicle collision occurred when a 2008 Honda Accord struck the center divider of a tunnel beneath the airport, resulting in a devastating fire. Authorities are investigating whether speed or impairment played a role in the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a team to assist with the investigation.
The crash took place on Lakewood Boulevard at around 1:18 a.m., near Spring Street. Video footage showed the gray sedan engulfed in flames after hitting the center median and losing control. Firefighters pronounced all four individuals dead at the scene, including two males and two females. One female was pronounced dead outside the vehicle, while the other three were found inside.
The California Highway Patrol closed Lakewood Boulevard in both directions between Spring and Willow streets following the crash. The northbound exit of the 405 Freeway near Lakewood was also closed for several hours. Investigators are seeking information from anyone who witnessed the collision or can identify the driver.
This incident highlights the dangers of high-speed collisions on heavily traveled roads, particularly those
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026