Street Racing Kills 1 and Injures 2

May 17, 2006

Los Angeles: Jonathan McGinnis, 19, was killed and two others were injured yesterday evening during a street racing traffic collision in Woodland Hills.

According to police, McGinnis, who was driving at a high rate of speed, died after his red Honda Civic crashed into a Toyota Corolla shortly before 9:00 p.m. in the 24000 block of Vanowen Street. Three parked cars were also damaged.

Witnesses told investigators that McGinnis was racing another car when he lost control of his Honda.

The two passengers of the Toyota Corolla, a student driver and her instructor, were taken to local hospitals where they are listed in stable condition.

Every year, illegal street racing grows in popularity, especially among young adults. This dangerous racing activity claims the lives of hundreds of drivers, passengers and innocent bystanders and thousands more are injured.

The Los Angeles Police Department aggressively enforces laws involving illegal street racing. Violators pay heavy fines, have their vehicle confiscated and lose their driving privileges.

Police are asking for the public’s help for anyone who may have witnessed the collision at Vanowen Street, between Platt Avenue and Valley Circle. Anyone with information is asked to call Valley Traffic Detectives at 818-374-1930 or 818-756-8381. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-our toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).