A fatal collision in Long Beach on Tuesday morning took the life of 35-year-old Sovan Koy, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The tragic accident occurred around 7:35 a.m. at the intersection of Wardlow Road and Palo Verde Avenue, involving two vehicles. Koy was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
According to the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD), Koy was driving a 2002 Toyota Sequoia eastbound on Wardlow Road when he failed to stop at a red light at the intersection. At the same time, a 2014 Toyota Tundra was traveling southbound through the intersection on a green light. The two vehicles collided with significant force, causing the Sequoia to overturn.
The violent impact ejected Koy from his vehicle, and he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. LBPD confirmed that the driver of the Tundra remained on-site and cooperated fully with investigators. No injuries were reported for the driver of the Tundra, and no charges have been announced at this time.
Authorities closed the area around Wardlow Road and Palo Verde Avenue to investigate the crash, which preliminary findings suggest may have involved speed and distracted driving. However, the investigation is ongoing as detectives work to gather additional information and evidence.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with details about the crash is encouraged to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective David Dougherty at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or via lacrimestoppers.org.
This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of obeying traffic signals and avoiding distractions while driving. The Long Beach community is mourning the loss of Sovan Koy, whose untimely death serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers posed by inattentive or hurried driving. Officials are committed to uncovering the full circumstances behind the crash as the investigation continues.