Power Outage Possibly Contributed in Fatal Traffic Collision

February 20, 2003

"Power Outage Possibly Contributed in Fatal Traffic Collision "
 

Los Angeles: On February 20, 2003, at approximately 5:10 a.m., a fatal traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Winnetka Avenue and Parthenia Street.
A 1989 GMC Sierra truck traveling northbound on Winnetka Avenue collided with a 1987 Honda Civic traveling westbound on Parthenia Street. The driver of the Honda died at the scene as a result of head trauma sustained in the collision.
At the time of collision, the tri-light and overhead lamp standards were not operational. The cause is unknown as to why the lights were not functioning, but possibly due to high winds earlier in the morning. Several calls were generated throughout the evening and morning hours regarding power outages.
The driver of the Honda has been identified as a 41 year-old Richard Piche, a resident of Reseda. The driver of the GMC was a 51 year-old male. Valley Traffic Division Detectives are currently conducting the investigation and no charges are pending at this time.
 
Anyone with information regarding this incident may call Valley Traffic Detectives at 818-756-8391.
 
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.