WRIGHTWOOD, Calif. — A late-night drive along a California mountain highway turned deadly early Friday morning when a vehicle carrying six Wrightwood residents veered off State Route 2 and plunged down an embankment.
The crash happened at approximately 1:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4, near Mile Post Marker 81.30, according to the California Highway Patrol. The location was between Big Pines and Wrightwood, along the eastern edge of the Angeles National Forest.
The group was traveling eastbound in a black 2016 Hyundai Veloster when the vehicle suddenly left the roadway. The car overturned as it traveled down the embankment before eventually striking a power pole.
The violent crash ejected five of the six occupants.
Five Occupants Ejected From Vehicle
According to CHP, four people suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. The other two occupants survived but sustained critical injuries. They were transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The crash left investigators facing several serious questions about what happened during the moments before the Hyundai left the road. CHP said its preliminary investigation found that none of the occupants were wearing seat belts when the collision occurred.
The agency also said alcohol is likely a contributing factor in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not indicated whether additional factors may have played a role.
Victims Remembered as Bright and Talented
Three of the people killed have been identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as Rebeka Cabral-Gonzalez, 21, Jason Potter, 19, and Nevaeh Harper, 20, according to NBCLA.
Friends and family have since begun remembering the victims and raising money to help their loved ones cope with the devastating loss.
A GoFundMe established in Cabral-Gonzalez’s memory described her as a “bright light” and “free spirit” who had an incredible zest for life.
According to the fundraiser, Rebeka loved the outdoors, was an athlete throughout school and participated in several school bands. She also worked as a ski instructor and was known for showing particular compassion toward children with special needs.
The fundraiser described her as someone who had a natural ability to connect with people and make them feel seen and heard.
Snowboarder Jason Potter Mourned by Family
Potter was also remembered for his passion and personality. A separate GoFundMe described the 19-year-old as a talented snowboarder who brought energy and joy wherever he went.
“Jason was an incredibly talented snowboarder who had a way of bringing so much life and energy into every space he entered,” the fundraiser organizer wrote.
Donations are being collected to help Potter’s family deal with the unexpected financial burden following his death and give them time to grieve.
The organizer also urged the community to surround the Potter family with support as they mourn.
“Jason was deeply loved. His energy, his talent, and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten,” the organizer added.
California Highway Patrol Continues Investigation
The deadly crash remains under investigation as CHP works to determine exactly what led the Hyundai to leave State Route 2. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the California Highway Patrol.
The agency is also using the tragedy to remind drivers and passengers about the importance of basic safety precautions.
CHP urged motorists and passengers to wear seat belts every time they travel and reminded drivers never to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
For the Wrightwood community, the crash has left multiple families grieving after a routine journey ended with four lives lost and two others critically injured.
As investigators continue piecing together what happened on the mountain road, loved ones are left remembering the victims for the lives they lived rather than the tragic circumstances that ended them.
What do you think about the safety reminders following this devastating crash? Share your thoughts in the comments.
