Bicyclist Killed, 2 Injured In 2-Vehicle Crash In West Hills
CANOGA PARK (CBSLA.com) — One person was killed and two others were injured, one critically, in a two-vehicle crash Thursday in West Hills
The person killed was a female cyclist in her 40s who was standing on the sidewalk at the time of the accident. She was not carrying identification at the time of the crash, authorities said.
The crash occurred just before 4 p.m at the corner of Sherman Way and Shoup Avenue.
Investigators said a Toyota headed south on Shoup crashed into a Lexus turning west onto Sherman Way. The impact of that crash sent the Toyota onto the sidewalk, where it slammed into the cyclist.
Two other people were injured in the crash and both were taken to a hospital.
KCAL9's Rachel Kim reported from the scene, where witnesses said they heard a horrific crash.
"It was a lot of speed in the car accident; it was quite a boom," said Ricardo Ponzo, who lives nearby.
"Instantly, I thought I need to know who that is because I know everyone on their bikes almost," said Ponzo. "I came over here and I saw her bike, and I just kept thinking, 'Oh, my God.' "
Ponzo told Kim he often said hello to the woman as they would pass each other on their bikes.
"She was a very nice lady, kept to herself. I feel sad," Ponzo said.
LAPD investigators say the drivers involved in the accident will survive their injuries.
Detectives are trying to determine if the Toyota driver was operating the vehicle under the influence.
"Anytime we investigate a collision of this magnitude, one of the very first things we do is check for impairment. At this particular moment we are in the process of finding that out," LAPD detective Bill Bustos said.
If you witnessed the accident, you're asked to call the West Valley Traffic Division of the LAPD.