Speed Blamed For Crash That Killed 2 College Football Players In Sylmar
SYLMAR (CBSLA.com) — Speed is being blamed for a crash that killed two people Friday night in Sylmar.
The deceased were identified Saturday as two members of the College of the Canyons football team.
Isaiah Hastings, 19, of Lancaster and 18-year-old Alexander Manu of Reseda were killed in the collision Friday night on San Fernando Road near the 5 Freeway underpass just after 7:30 p.m.
A third football player, Eldridge Salguero, 18, of Van Nuys, was driving. He also sustained major injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital.
The deceased were passengers in a black 2005 Nissan 300Z that was heading southbound on San Fernando Road. Authorities say the vehicle lost control and swerved into the northbound lanes, striking a silver 2013 Honda Odyssey van.
The driver of the Honda was identified as Suh Min Kyung, 44, of Castaic. Authorities said Min Kyung and an 11-year-old in the van sustained minor injuries. Both were taken to an area hospital.
On Saturday, College of the Canyons released a statement.
"We're grieving the loss of two student-athletes whose lives and potential were tragically cut short," said school Chancellor Dr. Diane Van Hook. "This was a special group of young men who clearly understood the power of teamwork. Isaiah, Alexander, and Eldridge had already distinguished themselves during their short time with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, and we're hoping for the best for Eldridge."
All three came to College of the Canyons from Birmingham Community Charter High School in the San Fernando Valley.
Friday evening witnesses told reporters they believed street racing was responsible for the crash. On Saturday, officials discounted those reports but did say speed was a factor.
"It's an absolute tragedy," said Lt. Warren Jones with the LAPD's Valley Traffic Division, "You have three lives that have been changed forever. Two have ended and another one has been seriously compromised."
KCAL9's Art Barron picked up the story on Saturday evening where he spoke to family of one of the victims.
"I just truly love him, and I miss him," said Cia Manu, about her brother.
"My mom was in shock at first," Cia said, "and then I think it really hit her. I cried but I had to stay strong for my mom. I'm going to be strong. I'm going to take responsibility for my family. Do what I have to do. He would have done the same."
Anyone with information about this case was asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Officer H. Fredo at (818) 644-8037, or Detective W. Bustos at (818) 644-8021.
Related: 2 Dead, 1 Critically Hurt In Sylmar Crash Caused Allegedly By Street Racing
