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A devastating crash on State Route 60 in Los Angeles left one person dead and 32 others injured early Sunday morning, May 11, 2025. The collision occurred around 5:00 am in the Hacienda Heights area when a tour bus carrying 63 passengers struck a disabled Nissan Pathfinder that had broken down in a traffic lane.
The impact caused the SUV to erupt into flames, tragically killing its occupant. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity. According to California Highway Patrol Officer Zachary Salazar, most of the 32 injured individuals sustained moderate to mild injuries, though two were listed in critical condition.
The bus, en route from Indio to Koreatown, was driven by Sui Sheng Du. After striking the SUV, the vehicle veered across several lanes before colliding with a guardrail. Dramatic footage from CHP shows the bus resting precariously on the shoulder with a shattered windshield and heavy front-end damage.
Officials confirmed that neither drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. The cause of the SUV’s breakdown remains under investigation.
If you or a loved one was affected by this incident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options. Call Singleton Schreiber today to schedule a free consultation with one of our qualified lawyers.
What Causes High-Speed Collisions and Why They’re Dangerous
High-speed crashes involving buses and disabled vehicles are among the most hazardous types of freeway collisions. When a stalled vehicle is left on the roadway, especially in low-light or early morning conditions, it can be nearly impossible for oncoming drivers to avoid.
Common causes of these types of crashes include:
- Mechanical breakdowns: engine failure, tire blowouts, or battery issues can leave a vehicle stranded in live traffic lanes.
- Driver visibility issues: poor lighting, early morning fog, or blind curves can delay reaction times.
- Driver distraction or fatigue: especially relevant for long-distance bus drivers or early morning commuters.
- Lack of warning or hazard signals: a disabled vehicle without hazard lights or warning triangles may not be seen in time by other drivers.
Why High-Speed Accidents Involving Buses Are Particularly Dangerous
- Buses have long stopping distances and are less maneuverable
- Freeway speeds increase the severity of impacts
- Fires can result from fuel leaks or ruptured batteries, especially when vehicles are stationary and struck from behind
- Large passenger counts increase the number of people at risk in a single crash
“Crashes like this one underscore just how quickly tragedy can strike,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “When a vehicle is stranded on a freeway, even a moment’s delay can have deadly consequences. Our firm has helped many families navigate the aftermath of similar collisions, and we are deeply saddened for the loved ones of the person who lost their life and for those injured in this devastating event.”
Legal Recourse for the Victims Affected in the SUV Bus Collision
Both the family of the deceased SUV driver and the injured bus passengers may be entitled to pursue legal action following this tragic event.
Potential legal options may include:
For the deceased SUV driver:
- Wrongful death claim: the victim’s surviving family members may file a claim against any responsible parties, such as the tour bus company, if negligence is proven.
- Investigation of vehicle defects: if a manufacturing issue caused the SUV to break down, the vehicle’s manufacturer may also bear responsibility.
For the 32 injured passengers:
- Personal injury claims: injured passengers may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Claims against the bus company: if the investigation reveals the tour bus driver was fatigued, speeding, or otherwise negligent, the bus company could be held liable.
- Product liability: if injuries were worsened due to seatbelt maintenance or design may face claims.
Each of these cases requires thorough investigation and experienced legal guidance. If you or a loved one was affected by this collision, contact Singleton Schreiber to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free consultation.
