Authorities have identified the man who lost his life in a tragic multi-vehicle crash earlier this week in Commerce. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed the victim as 52-year-old Jose Cordova Aldana. The deadly collision occurred around 12:55 p.m. on Wednesday along the southbound lanes of the Santa Ana (5) Freeway near Washington Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Multiple vehicles were involved, prompting a large emergency response that temporarily shut down part of the busy freeway.
When first responders arrived, they found several vehicles with significant damage scattered across the lanes. Paramedics from the Los Angeles County Fire Department assessed those involved and confirmed that Aldana had succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Other motorists received medical attention, though authorities have not said whether any additional serious injuries occurred. The chaotic aftermath caused traffic to back up for miles as crews worked quickly to assist victims and secure the area.
Investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash. The CHP said they are still working to piece together the series of events that led to the collision. Factors such as speeding, weather conditions, or driver distraction have not been ruled out. One witness reported that a vehicle might have overturned during the impact, though officials have not confirmed that detail. Officers are reviewing evidence, including vehicle positions and road conditions, in hopes of understanding what caused the deadly chain reaction.
Following the crash, all southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway were closed for several hours as emergency crews cleared debris and investigators documented the scene. A SigAlert was issued, warning motorists of heavy delays and urging them to avoid the area. By late afternoon, three of the five lanes were reopened to help ease congestion, but traffic remained slow for hours. At around 4:50 p.m., officials lifted the SigAlert, announcing that all lanes had reopened and normal traffic flow was gradually being restored.
The fatal crash has left friends, family, and community members mourning the loss of Aldana. Authorities praised the Los Angeles County Fire Department and other responders for their swift actions, which helped prevent further accidents during the closure. CHP officials are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from that time to contact their Central Los Angeles Area Office to assist in the ongoing investigation.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike on California’s crowded freeways. Officials are reminding drivers to remain alert, avoid distractions, and maintain safe distances between vehicles. As investigators continue to search for answers, the community extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Jose Cordova Aldana, whose life was cut short in this devastating crash.