Los Angeles: On Wednesday, January 9, 2002, at approximately 7:30 p.m., 26 year-old Danielle Cox of Los Angeles was driving a 1999 Ford Escort eastbound on Burwood Avenue at Figueroa Street. Ms. Cox entered the intersection and collided with a 2001 black Volkswagen Jetta, which was driven by 22 year-old Christian Lejano southbound on Figueroa Street. Immediately following that impact Ms. Cox's vehicle was again struck by a silver 2002 Volkswagen Jetta which was also southbound on Figueroa Street, driven by 21 year-old Erik Contreras. According to witnesses at the scene, the drivers in both Jetta's were engaged in a speed contest on Figueroa Street just prior to the collision.

Ms. Cox and her passenger, Vigita Fajardo were transported by rescue ambulance to Huntington Memorial Hospital where Ms. Cox died due to her injuries and Fajardo was treated for a fractured hip and pain to her back. Contreras had four other passengers in his vehicle and two passengers who were seated in the rear sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital where they were treated and released. Lejano did not complain of injuries and was not treated at the scene.

Both Lejano and Contreras were questioned and released at the scene, but the investigating detectives will request misdemeanor filing for their activity in engaging in a speed contest.

This investigation is being handled by Central Traffic Division Detectives and is on going. For further information please contact Detective Mike Kaden or Detective Tia Morris at 213-485-3111.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.