Authorities have identified 21-year-old Danny Montoya of Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the victim of a tragic freeway collision in Palmdale, CA. The crash happened in the early morning hours of Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the northbound lanes of State Route 14, just south of Palmdale Boulevard.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Montoya had been driving a 2020 Tesla Model 3 when he was involved in a separate traffic accident. Following that initial crash, Montoya exited his vehicle and was standing in the roadway at approximately 4:35 am. A short time later, a 2008 MCI J-Series motorcoach, driven by 58-year-old F. Henriquez of Panorama City, was traveling in the lane Montoya was standing in and struck him. Montoya sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Montoya’s identity on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. CHP officials continue to investigate what led to the original crash and why Montoya was outside his vehicle when the fatal impact occurred.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar accident, contact Singleton Schreiber to speak with one of our experienced attorneys to learn more about your options.
Dangers of Exiting a Vehicle on a Freeway
Freeways are some of the most dangerous places to exit a vehicle. With cars and buses traveling at high speeds, even a moment on foot can put someone at serious risk of being fatally struck. Darkness during early morning hours further compounds the danger, as drivers often cannot see stranded motorists until it is too late.
When a collision leaves a vehicle disabled, drivers face an impossible choice: remain in the car and risk a secondary crash, or exit and risk being stuck while standing on the road. Both scenarios carry serious dangers, and unfortunately, Montoya found himself in this vulnerable position.
“Danny Montoya was a young driver caught in an unimaginable situation on the freeway,” says Brian Colón, managing partner at Singleton Schreiber, New Mexico (located in Albuquerque). “Even the most careful drivers can be vulnerable when a crash leaves them stranded in traffic, and his tragic death underscores how quickly a situation can turn fatal.”
Legal Options for Mr. Montoya’s Family
Families who lose a loved one in circumstances like this may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can cover funeral and burial costs, medical bills, lost financial support, and compensation for the profound grief that comes with losing a family member.
“Every case is unique, and the liable party or parties can vary depending on the facts uncovered in the investigation,” says Brett Schreiber, founding partner of Singleton Schreiber, located in San Diego. “Potentially responsible parties may include another driver involved in the first crash, the operator of the motorcoach, or the other entities linked to roadway safety.”
“While no legal outcome can undo the heartbreak Mr. Montoya’s family now faces, pursuing justice can help provide answers and stability for his family after their sudden loss.”
If your family has been impacted by a fatal accident, contact Singleton Schreiber to speak with one of our experienced attorneys. We can help you explore your legal options and protect your rights.
