Off-Duty Deputy Dies After Three-Car Crash With Multiple Injuries above Santa Clarita, CA

A deadly crash in the wilderness area above Santa Clarita, CA, shattered several lives on the afternoon of May 19, 2025, according to KTLA. A 21-year-old off-duty Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy was killed. Multiple others were injured. The accident happened on San Francisquito Canyon Road, south of Dry Gulch Road — a narrow, winding, often dangerous stretch known for high speeds and blind corners.

At 3:17 p.m., the California Highway Patrol (CHP) received reports of a multi-vehicle collision involving three cars. When officers arrived, they found “major damage” and “multiple injured parties.” The young deputy had sustained critical injuries. He was airlifted to Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital.

Despite every effort, he didn’t make it.

“Unfortunately, we lost one of our very young deputies in an off-duty traffic collision earlier today,” said L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna, speaking outside the hospital that evening.

Sheriff Luna confirmed that the deputy died shortly after arrival. His name has not been released yet. Luna explained that the deputy had a “very large family,” and not everyone had been notified. The deputy had been with the department for just one year. “Incredible young man. We are so fortunate to have hired him, and he was providing excellent service here in the community on and off duty,” Luna said.

The other victims were also transported to Henry Mayo Hospital by ambulance. Their conditions have not been disclosed.

As of now, the cause of the crash is under investigation.

The crash occurred near a popular shooting range, A Place to Shoot, in the mountainous area above Santa Clarita, east of Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, in an area popular for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle riding, frequented by locals. It’s likely the young deputy was going to or from the shooting range at the time of this tragic accident.

What Can a Family Do After a Fatal Crash Like This?

When someone dies in a car crash — whether they were a passenger, pedestrian, or driver — their family is left with more than grief. They face medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional pain that never truly goes away.

Under California law, when a death is caused by someone else’s negligence, it may be considered wrongful death and their survivors have rights.

If this crash was caused by another driver who acted carelessly or recklessly, the family of the off-duty deputy — or the families of anyone else injured — could have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

What Counts as Gross Negligence?

Gross negligence is more than making a mistake. It’s a complete disregard for the safety of others.

Examples include:

Driving too fast around canyon curves
Distracted driving (like texting)
Driving under the influence
Ignoring road markings, traffic signals or passing illegally

If one of the drivers involved in this crash was operating a vehicle this way, it may legally be gross negligence. That opens the door for a lawsuit.

The family could seek compensation for:

Funeral and burial expenses
The deceased’s lost future income
Emotional loss and companionship
Medical bills from the hospital stay

These losses aren’t just numbers. They represent real pain — and real rights under the law.

What If the Deputy Was At Fault?

It’s a hard question, but we must address it.

If the off-duty deputy was responsible for causing the crash — whether partially or entirely — his status as a law enforcement officer does not shield him from liability.

In this case, injured parties and other affected families may be able to file claims against:

The deputy’s personal auto insurance
His estate (if insurance isn’t enough)

Just like any other driver, an off-duty deputy is subject to the same driving laws. The fact that he was a peace officer does not protect him from being held accountable in a civil lawsuit if he caused harm.

Could Los Angeles County Be Liable?

It depends on one key factor: Was the deputy acting in an official capacity?

If he was using a county vehicle or performing job-related duties (even off the clock), there could be government liability under California’s rules for public employee negligence.

Based on what we know:

He was off duty
He was not on a call
No department-issued vehicle has been mentioned

In that case, L.A. County likely holds no legal responsibility for this crash. Claims would instead go through the deputy’s personal insurance — not through the county or sheriff’s department.

Still, if more facts come to light — like if he was responding to an emergency or working a detail — the situation could shift. The accident occurred near a shooting range. Law enforcement officers often practice their skills to stay sharp, in fact they may have required hours of practice for their job. That’s why early legal investigation is so important.

What Should You Do If You Lost Someone or Were Injured in This Crash — or One Like It?

You have rights — even if the facts are complex. Here’s what to do:

Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney Immediately

You need someone who knows how to investigate quickly and hold the right parties accountable — whether that’s a negligent driver, a public agency, or both. The King Law Firm specializes in personal injury law and handles wrongful death cases like this in northern Los Angeles County and Ventura County.

Get the Police and CHP Report

This report will show who may have caused the crash, road conditions, and witness statements. An attorney can obtain and review this quickly.

File a Wrongful Death or Personal Injury Claim

If your loved one died due to another driver’s negligence, you may be able to recover damages. California allows spouses, children, parents, and certain dependents to file these claims under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60.

Complex Auto Accident Injury Claims and Why Hiring a Los Angeles, CA, Car Accident Lawyer May Be Necessary

When crashes involve multiple vehicles, serious injuries, or a wrongful death, the legal process becomes much more complicated. You’re not just filing an insurance claim — you’re navigating issues like:

Fault and liability across multiple drivers
Government immunity if law enforcement is involved
Wrongful death laws
Insurance disputes between drivers, agencies, and victims

These types of claims require legal skill, fast action, and relentless representation. A Los Angeles car accident lawyer, The King Law Firm can handle everything from launching an independent investigation to filing suit against the correct party — or even the county, in rare circumstances.

Common Injuries Found in Multi-Vehicle Crashes and Their Life-Changing Consequences

Multi-vehicle crashes aren’t just fender benders. They unleash devastating force in all directions — crushing vehicles, tossing passengers, and shattering lives in seconds. Survivors often face catastrophic injuries that change everything about their future. These are not just physical injuries. They ripple outward, affecting every part of a victim’s life — including their families, their income, their independence, and their mental health.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

One of the most common — and most serious — outcomes in high-impact crashes is a traumatic brain injury. TBIs range from concussions to permanent brain damage. Victims can lose memory, struggle to speak, or suffer changes in personality. They may need 24-hour care. Many never return to work or live independently again. For families, watching a loved one mentally fade away is heartbreaking. TBIs don’t just hurt the body — they rob a person of who they used to be.

Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis

Another life-altering injury seen in these crashes is spinal cord damage. This can result in partial or full paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. A person who once ran, lifted, and played with their kids may now need a wheelchair — for life. Spinal injuries often require expensive surgeries, in-home medical care, and lifelong physical therapy. That’s on top of the emotional and mental toll — both for the victim and their family.

Crushed Limbs and Amputations

In multi-car pileups, vehicle frames collapse. Legs, arms, and hands can become trapped and crushed. Sometimes, doctors must amputate to save the victim’s life. The result? A permanent disability. Prosthetics can help, but nothing replaces what’s lost. Daily tasks become challenges. Careers can end. And emotionally, victims may struggle with confidence, depression, and grief over their altered bodies.

Internal Bleeding and Organ Failure

Not all injuries are visible. Internal injuries — especially bleeding or ruptured organs — can be deadly if not treated quickly. These injuries often go unnoticed at first, which is why immediate medical care after a crash is so important. Long-term effects may include organ damage, kidney or liver failure, and chronic pain. Victims may face multiple surgeries and a lifetime of medication.

Severe Burns from Vehicle Fires

In some crashes, fuel leaks ignite. Fires spread fast, and victims can suffer third-degree burns that destroy skin, muscle, and nerve tissue. Burn survivors endure months or years of surgery, skin grafts, and painful rehabilitation. Scarring is often permanent. Burns can lead to disfigurement and social isolation — affecting a person’s relationships, mental health, and quality of life.

Psychological Trauma and PTSD

The emotional fallout from a serious crash can be just as painful as the physical injuries. Survivors may develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — with nightmares, flashbacks, and anxiety so severe they can’t drive or function normally. Others develop depression or survivor’s guilt, especially if someone died in the crash. These mental injuries often go untreated, yet they can be just as disabling as a broken spine.

The Ripple Effect: How These Injuries Change Lives

These injuries don’t just affect the person who was hurt. They affect spouses, children, parents, and caregivers.

A father may lose the ability to support his family.
A young adult may have to drop out of college.
A child may need to become a caregiver for their parent.
Families may go into debt paying for medical care.
Relationships may crumble under the weight of grief, exhaustion, or financial stress.

Some survivors can’t return to work. Others are forced into lower-paying jobs or early retirement. The household may lose its primary income. That kind of loss isn’t just personal — it’s financial. That’s why pursuing full compensation matters so much.

These Injuries Deserve Serious Legal Help

When injuries are this severe, you need a legal team that takes your case as seriously as you do. Medical bills, lost wages, lifelong care — it all adds up. And you shouldn’t have to carry that burden alone, especially if the crash wasn’t your fault.

Whether you’re a victim or you’re grieving someone who didn’t survive, the law gives you the right to seek justice. That includes financial compensation for:

Ongoing and future medical care
Lost earning potential
Home modifications and medical equipment
Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Emotional distress and PTSD
Loss of companionship or parental guidance

We help you fight for all of it — not just what the insurance company thinks you deserve.

What To Do After A Serious Accident

If you’ve just survived a serious crash — or if you’re dealing with the unthinkable loss of someone you love — what you do in the hours and days that follow can make all the difference. It’s overwhelming. You’re scared. Maybe in pain. But the steps you take now can protect your health, your rights, and your future. If the victim can’t speak for themselves, family and friends can help carry the load.

Call 911 Immediately and Report the Accident

The first step is always to call for help. Dial 911. Report the accident clearly and calmly. Give them your location and any details you know about injuries. If you’re able, try to describe the scene — how many cars were involved, whether anyone is unconscious, or if a vehicle is on fire. Emergency responders will send police, fire, and medical teams. This call also starts the official record of what happened.

If you’re a family member and you’ve arrived at the scene — or if you receive that terrible call — ask the hospital or authorities if a report has been made. Get the incident number. That report will be key later.

Get Medical Attention — Even If Injuries Don’t Seem Obvious at First

Right after a crash, your adrenaline is pumping. You might feel “fine” but still have hidden injuries like internal bleeding, spinal trauma, or a concussion. Don’t risk it. Go to the ER or urgent care immediately. Documenting injuries right away can also protect your legal claim down the line.

If your loved one is injured or unconscious, stay with them if allowed, or make sure medical personnel know you’re a contact. Hospitals may not share details right away unless you’re listed as next of kin or legally authorized, so advocate where you can.

Collect Evidence at the Scene — If You’re Able

Photos can make or break a case. If you’re physically able, take pictures or video of everything: the vehicles, the road conditions, skid marks, street signs, weather, and any visible injuries. Ask witnesses to stay and give statements to police. Get their names and contact info. Capture license plates and any details you can.

If you’re helping an injured family member, try to go to the crash site if it’s safe. Take photos yourself or ask someone to send them to you. Time matters — the scene changes fast once cars are towed or cleaned up.

Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies Yet — Let Your Lawyer Handle That

Insurance adjusters are trained to sound friendly, but they are not on your side. They may try to get a recorded statement, twist your words, or offer a fast settlement that’s far less than you deserve. Politely decline. Tell them you are seeking legal counsel.

If you’re calling on behalf of someone who is incapacitated or grieving, be firm. Say the family is not ready to speak. A lawyer can protect the claim from the start — including helping the family avoid costly mistakes.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible

Don’t wait. The sooner you speak to a personal injury lawyer, the sooner you get real protection. Lawyers can secure evidence before it disappears, help you navigate hospitals and insurance paperwork, and begin building a case for compensation. If your loved one is in the ICU or has passed away, we’ll walk you through wrongful death options and how to file on behalf of their estate.

A good attorney becomes your lifeline — fighting for answers, compensation, and peace of mind while you focus on healing or grieving.

You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone

Whether you’re sitting beside a hospital bed or trying to piece your life back together after a fatal crash, we want you to know this: you’re not alone. There are people — real, experienced people — ready to fight for you. You don’t need to know all the answers right now. You just need to take that first step and ask for help.

At King Law Firm, we’ve stood beside countless families during their darkest hours. We listen. We act fast. And we treat your case with the care and respect it deserves.

Aggressive Motor Vehicle Accident Representation – Learn More About Personal Injury Attorneys in Los Angeles, CA

The tragic crash that took the life of a young, off-duty Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy is a heartbreaking reminder of how fast lives can change — and how critical it is to act quickly when tragedy strikes. Whether you’re the one injured, or you’re a family member left behind after a fatal accident, you deserve answers. You also deserve powerful legal help to protect your rights and your future. At King Law Firm, we step in when things are at their worst.

We don’t shy away from hard cases — especially multi-vehicle crashes where the facts may be unclear or liability is disputed. If gross negligence played a role, or if a government agency may be involved, we investigate every angle. Our legal team fights to uncover the truth, preserve key evidence, and stand up to anyone — individuals, corporations, or public entities — that try to avoid responsibility.

When you work with us, you’re getting more than just legal support. You’re getting a committed team with a proven record, open 24/7, that will walk you through every step — from emergency medical billing support to overturning denied insurance claims. You’ll see exactly how we maximize compensation, fast-track settlements when possible, and bring lawsuits when necessary. We don’t wait for justice — we pursue it.

The sections ahead explain how we fight for injured victims and grieving families across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. You’ll learn how we take on big insurance companies, uncover hidden policy coverage, and help people just like you reclaim their lives after catastrophic accidents.

Big Insurance Companies Have Teams of Lawyers on Staff

Let’s be honest: insurance companies are not in business to pay claims — they’re in business to make money. And the less they pay you, the more they keep for themselves. Every year, these corporations generate billions in profits by delaying, denying, and underpaying valid claims from injured people and grieving families.

They may act friendly on the phone. They may even tell you they “just need a statement” or that they’re “working to get this resolved quickly.” But behind the scenes? It’s a different story. They’ve already activated their legal team, hired accident reconstruction experts, and combed through your records looking for anything they can use to limit or reject your claim.

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They’re taught to cast doubt on injuries, suggest fault might be shared, or argue that the damages “aren’t as severe as claimed.” They may use complex policy language to confuse you. Some will pressure you into fast settlements — before you even know how serious your injuries are or what kind of long-term care you’ll need.

And if the crash involves a government vehicle — like a sheriff’s department unit or city-owned car — the insurer may try to hide behind strict deadlines and sovereign immunity rules, making it even harder to hold the responsible parties accountable. Without legal help, most people don’t even know these barriers exist — until it’s too late.

That’s why you need an experienced personal injury lawyer working for you from the very beginning. At King Law Firm, we know the insurance industry from the inside out. We know their tactics. We anticipate their moves. And we build airtight cases that force them to take your claim seriously — or face us in court.

Your Own Policy May Have Coverage

It’s not just the other driver’s insurance that matters — your own auto insurance policy may be a hidden lifeline after a crash. Most people don’t realize how many benefits are tucked into the fine print. When the at-fault driver is underinsured, uninsured, or unidentified — like in a hit-and-run — you may still be covered through your own plan. But your insurer won’t always tell you that upfront.

At King Law Firm, we dig into every clause of your policy, line by line. We uncover overlooked coverage options such as:

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

This coverage helps pay when the other driver has no insurance or too little to cover the damage they caused. This is critical in hit-and-run cases or crashes involving drivers with bare-minimum policies.

MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage)

MedPay can pay your hospital bills immediately, regardless of who caused the accident. That means you get help fast, without having to wait on a liability decision.

Collision Coverage

This coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle, even if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough coverage or isn’t known.

We often find that accident victims are entitled to far more than they realize. That’s why our legal team reviews your entire policy — so you don’t leave a single dollar on the table.

Fighting For Your Financial Rights After An Accident

After a catastrophic crash, the losses go far beyond hospital bills. You may be out of work for months — or forever. You might need lifelong care, or may have lost someone you love. At King Law Firm, we understand how deeply a serious accident can affect every part of your life. And we know how to put a dollar amount on every harm you’ve suffered.

You may be entitled to significant compensation for:

Emergency and Long-Term Medical Treatment – Including surgeries, rehabilitation, assistive equipment, and home modifications.
Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity – For victims who can’t return to work or must take a lower-paying job due to injuries.
Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, permanent limitations, and the day-to-day impact on your quality of life.
Emotional Distress and PTSD – Anxiety, depression, nightmares, and psychological trauma are real and compensable.
Wrongful Death Expenses – Including funeral and burial costs, lost financial support, and the emotional loss of a loved one.
Loss of Companionship – A legal claim for the relational and emotional loss experienced by surviving spouses, children, and parents.

These aren’t abstract concepts — they represent your life, your security, and your future. And when someone else’s negligence took those things from you, you have every right to demand full and fair compensation. We’ll fight to make that happen.

What If My Car Accident Claim Is Denied?

If your claim has been denied, don’t panic — and don’t assume the insurer is right. Insurance companies deny valid claims all the time, often hoping you’ll give up without a fight. Denials can happen even when the facts are clear and the injuries are severe.

Some of the most common reasons we’ve seen for claim denials include:

“We don’t believe your injuries are related to the crash.”
“There’s not enough medical documentation.”
“You didn’t notify us in time.”
“The at-fault driver wasn’t covered.”
“There’s a dispute about who was at fault.”

Even worse, some insurers deny claims based on technicalities that aren’t even applicable. Don’t take their word for it. Let a skilled attorney review your case and explain your rights. In many cases, what looks like a dead end is really just a delay tactic.

A Skilled LA Car Accident Lawyer May Be Able to Overturn a Denial

If your claim has been denied, you still have options — and we know how to use them. At King Law Firm, we handle appeals for injury victims throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. We don’t just send a letter and hope for the best — we dig in, gather stronger evidence, and take a strategic approach to reverse the decision.

King Law brings in new medical reports, expert opinions, and eyewitness statements. We challenge vague or misleading denial language. And if the insurance company still refuses to pay, we’re ready to take them to court. Many insurers will reverse course when they realize you have aggressive legal representation behind you.

Appealing a denial requires skill, timing, and attention to detail — and we bring all three. When you’re facing a stubborn insurer, don’t back down. Call us. We’ll fight to overturn the denial and get you what you’re owed.

Award-Winning Los Angeles Area Personal Injury Lawyers – Call King Law Firm After a Crash

King Law Firm has proudly served Los Angeles County for decades, delivering justice for accident victims and grieving families across Southern California. Kenneth King and his team are award-winning trial lawyers who’ve gone head-to-head with some of the largest insurance companies in the nation — and won.

We’re not afraid to take a case to court when necessary, and we prepare every claim as if it will go to trial. We know what it takes to build a winning case — and we do it every day with precision, urgency, and care. Clients trust us because we deliver results and treat them like family from day one.

Getting to the Legal Settlement Quickly

We understand that after an accident, you need answers and relief fast — not a legal battle that drags on for years. At King Law Firm, we don’t stall or delay. We launch our investigation within 24 hours of taking your case, gathering crucial evidence while it’s fresh and pursuing the best path to compensation.

We negotiate hard with insurers and push for fair settlements as quickly as possible. And if they won’t cooperate, we’re ready to file a lawsuit and escalate. Many of our cases resolve in months, not years, because we don’t waste time — and we don’t back down.

Tens of Millions Won – We Have the Skills to Win

Our track record isn’t just impressive — it’s proven. We’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for injury victims and their families across California. That includes life-changing settlements and jury verdicts for people who faced catastrophic injuries or lost loved ones.

No case is too big or too small. Whether it’s a $10,000 rear-end accident or a $10 million wrongful death case, we bring the same aggressive advocacy, tireless work ethic, and commitment to justice. When you hire us, you hire winners.

Bilingual Accident Injury Law Firm

Hablamos Español. You shouldn’t have to fight through a language barrier to get help. At King Law Firm, our bilingual staff ensures every client — English- or Spanish-speaking — fully understands their rights and feels confident every step of the way.

We explain legal terms in clear language and make sure you’re never left in the dark. We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of the language they speak.

Offices in LA & Ventura Counties

We serve clients across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties with pride and accessibility. Whether you’re located in Santa Clarita, Van Nuys, Glendale, Woodland Hills, Oxnard, or anywhere in between, our experienced attorneys are just a phone call or short drive away from our offices in Northridge and Westlake Village. Contact us now on our website.

Our local knowledge gives us an edge in courtrooms and negotiations — and we’re here when and where you need us most.

Open 24 Hours a Day – 7 Days a Week

Accidents don’t wait for business hours — and neither do we. Our firm is available 24/7, including weekends and holidays. If you’re hurt or grieving, you don’t have to wait for help.

Call any time, day or night: 818-452-2510. Para Español: 818-855-5116. A real person will answer and connect you to a legal team that’s ready to take action immediately.

No Fees Until You Win Your Case

You won’t pay us a penny unless we win. That’s not a pitch — it’s a guarantee. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if you do.

No upfront costs. No surprise charges. If we don’t recover money for you, you owe us nothing. That’s our promise — and our motivation to fight hard for every single client.

Call a Motor Vehicle Accident Injury Lawyer in the Los Angeles Area Now

You’ve been through enough. If you or someone you love has been injured in a serious crash — or if you’ve lost a family member because of someone else’s negligence — you deserve answers. You deserve justice. And you deserve a legal team that will fight for every dollar you’re owed.

At King Law Firm, we handle the legal battle so you can focus on what matters most: healing, grieving, rebuilding, and moving forward. From filing claims to going toe-to-toe with big insurance, we’re in your corner every step of the way.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses move. The insurance companies are already working against you. The sooner you call, the stronger your case can be. Call 818-452-2510. Para Español: 818-855-5116. Your team at The King Law Firm is ready when you are. Let’s get started today.