UPDATED 4:00 pm 9/28
Burbank firefighters received a call around 4:10 am on Saturday morning of a traffic accident and vehicle fire on southbound San Fernando underpass near the Scott Rd. off-ramp to the 5 Freeway.
Upon arriving on scene, Engine 11 reported that there was a vehicle on fire with the flames also spreading to the brush and trees next to the freeway. While putting out the fire, it was determined that victims were still in the vehicle. Five victims that did not exit the car. were visible at the scene by firefighters.
Initial investigation indicates the Nissan was traveling south on San Fernando Boulevard at a high rate of speed, lost control, and eventually slammed into the concrete abutment.
It was reported by police at the scene that a local delivery driver, who did not see the actual accident, was driving by and came upon the car. He was able to pull one female (an 18 year-old) from the vehicle before the flames became too intense. Paramedics treated the woman and transported her to County USC Medical Center for her injuries. The woman told officers at the scene that there were others still trapped in the car which was reported to be a Nissan.
Reports are the car was registered to a Burbank residence and possibly contained Burbank residents. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s office is working to identify the victims and will release their identity upon confirmation and notification of next of kin.
The Burbank Police Department Chaplains were summoned to assist the families and friends of the victims through this tragedy. Psychological service professionals are also on hand to assist the members of the Police and Fire Departments, as needed.
Southbound San Fernando was completely closed to traffic while Burbank Police investigated the accident. Since there were no witnesses to the accident, Police would like anyone who might have seen anything to call Detective Sam Anderson at 818-238-3100.
With the five fatalities in the accident, this is one of the most serious vehicle accidents in Burbank history. Officers at the scene said that this is one of the worst accidents that they have ever seen.
