SUV Crashes Into Closed Lanes on 405 Freeway, Killing Passenger

Suspected DUI driver arrested after incident in Irvine, California

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:07pm

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A speeding Subaru SUV veered into closed lanes on the southbound 405 Freeway in Irvine, California on Thursday night, hitting a truck on a Caltrans construction project and killing the SUV's 26-year-old passenger. The 26-year-old Norwalk man driving the SUV was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of heeding road closures and construction zones. Caltrans has emphasized the need for all drivers to slow down and move over when approaching work sites to protect workers and prevent tragedies.

The details

The California Highway Patrol was notified of the crash, which occurred north of the MacArthur Boulevard exit, just after 10:40 p.m. There were two lanes closed at the time. Before hitting the construction truck, the Subaru SUV struck a concrete wall along the right shoulder. The passenger who died was a 26-year-old man from Buena Park. The 47-year-old Cudahy man contracted by Caltrans was standing next to the truck when the crash occurred and suffered minor injuries.

  • The crash occurred on Thursday, January 30, 2026 just after 10:40 p.m.

The players

Subaru SUV Driver

A 26-year-old man from Norwalk who was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Caltrans Worker

A 47-year-old man from Cudahy who was contracted by Caltrans and suffered minor injuries in the crash.

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What they’re saying

“This serves as a reminder to all drivers to slow down and move over when approaching construction zones and Caltrans maintenance operations on our highway system.”

— Sheilah Fortenberry, Caltrans Spokesperson

What’s next

The CHP did not immediately identify the suspected drunk driver, but authorities said he was arrested at the scene. The identity of the passenger who died was also being withheld pending notification of his relatives.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for all drivers to exercise extreme caution when approaching construction zones and obey all road closures, especially to protect the safety of workers on the job. Drunk driving continues to be a major public safety concern that puts innocent lives at risk.