Whittier Man Arrested for 2023 Deadly Long Beach Crash

Ivan Olarte-Torres accused of vehicular manslaughter in collision that killed Roberto Rodriguez

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:55pm

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A 31-year-old man from Whittier, California has been arrested and charged with vehicular manslaughter for a fatal traffic collision that occurred in Long Beach in 2023. Ivan Olarte-Torres was taken into custody at his home on Tuesday and booked at the Long Beach City Jail with bail set at $50,000. The crash killed 27-year-old Roberto Rodriguez when Olarte-Torres' 2021 Hyundai Sonata struck Rodriguez' 1996 Toyota Camry at a high rate of speed in the southbound lanes of Magnolia Avenue.

Why it matters

This arrest highlights the ongoing issue of dangerous driving and the tragic consequences it can have. While alcohol and drugs were not factors in this particular crash, high-speed driving remains a major public safety concern, especially in urban areas like Long Beach. The case also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and holding reckless drivers accountable for their actions.

The details

According to police, Olarte-Torres was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed in the southbound lanes of Magnolia Avenue when his 2021 Hyundai Sonata struck the 1996 Toyota Camry driven by Roberto Rodriguez. The impact caused Rodriguez' vehicle to collide with several parked cars. Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene, while Olarte-Torres sustained critical injuries and was transported to a hospital.

  • The fatal crash occurred on January 29, 2023 around 4:05 a.m.
  • Olarte-Torres was arrested at his Whittier home on Tuesday, January 31, 2026.

The players

Ivan Olarte-Torres

A 31-year-old man from Whittier, California who was arrested and charged with vehicular manslaughter for a fatal 2023 traffic collision in Long Beach.

Roberto Rodriguez

A 27-year-old man who was killed when his 1996 Toyota Camry was struck by Olarte-Torres' vehicle in the 2023 Long Beach crash.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information regarding the collision was urged to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detective Kelsey Myers at 562-570-7355. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org”

— LBPD (presstelegram.com)

What’s next

Olarte-Torres is scheduled to appear in court on February 15, 2026 for a bail hearing to determine if he will be released on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for reckless driving, especially when it leads to loss of life. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations to hold dangerous drivers accountable and provide some measure of justice for victims and their families.