Local
Two die in five-vehicle crash on I-280 near Los Altos
A Lexus left the northbound side of I-280 near Foothill Expressway Thursday evening, crossed the median and set off a chain of collisions that killed two people. The California Highway Patrol is investigating; the crash happened during rainy, overcast conditions.
Two people were killed and another was taken to a hospital after a five-vehicle collision on Interstate 280 near Foothill Expressway in Los Altos shortly after 5 p.m. Thursday, the California Highway Patrol said Friday.
Investigators said a Lexus sedan traveling northbound went up a dirt embankment for reasons that remain unknown, struck the center median and overturned onto the southbound lanes. The Lexus then collided with a Kia SUV, and its driver was ejected onto the roadway, the CHP said. Fire personnel pronounced the Lexus driver dead at the scene; authorities had not released the person’s identity as of Friday.
The Lexus’s right front tire came off and struck a southbound Toyota sedan. The Toyota driver also died at the scene, according to the CHP.
Debris from the Lexus damaged a Tesla SUV and a Toyota SUV, but their occupants were not injured. The Kia driver was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.
All southbound lanes were closed for several hours as officers investigated, with traffic diverted to Magdalena Avenue. The lanes reopened at about 9:11 p.m.
Rain and overcast skies across the Bay Area Thursday contributed to slick roads and reduced visibility, though the CHP has not said whether weather played a role in this crash. Investigators also have not determined whether alcohol or drugs were factors.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact the CHP at 650-779-2700.