Tour Bus Bound for Koreatown Kills 1, Injures 32 on 60 Freeway

A tour bus bound for Koreatown collided with an SUV early Sunday morning on the 60 Freeway, resulting in one death and 32 injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

1 killed, 32 injured in early morning collision

The crash occurred around 5:07 a.m. on Mother’s Day, May 11, on the westbound lanes of the 60 Freeway, near Hacienda Boulevard. The bus, which had departed Morongo Casino and was returning to Los Angeles’ Koreatown, struck a Nissan SUV that was stopped in the number one lane.

The SUV caught fire, and its driver, who was alone inside, died at the scene, authorities confirmed. Although the flames did not spread to the bus, its front section sustained severe damage.

The bus was carrying 63 passengers at the time of the crash. Thirty-two passengers were transported to nearby hospitals, with two reported in critical condition, according to the CHP.

Investigation continues; possible Korean American victims

The bus is frequently used by Korean Americans (Korean American) traveling between the casino and Koreatown, raising the possibility that Korean American passengers may be among the injured, though this has not been confirmed.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the collision.

BY NAKI PARK [park.naki@koreadaily.com]