Driver jailed for deadly Long Beach crash into porch

Toddler killed, woman and girl injured in incident involving SUV reversing onto sidewalk

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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A 55-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and assault following a crash that killed a 1-year-old toddler who was sitting on a porch in front of a Long Beach apartment complex. The driver, Lamont Russell, was allegedly reversing an SUV when it jumped the curb and struck the group, also injuring a woman and a second girl.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the need for increased safety measures to protect pedestrians, especially vulnerable populations like young children, in residential areas. It also raises questions about the specific circumstances that led to the assault charges against the driver.

The details

According to police, the crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 2, in the 400 block of Maine Avenue in Long Beach. Lamont Russell was allegedly reversing the SUV, possibly trying to turn around, when the vehicle jumped the curb and struck the group sitting on the porch. The toddler, identified as 1-year-old Myrah Hunter, was killed, while a woman and a second girl were also injured. Russell remained at the scene following the incident.

  • The crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Lamont Russell

A 55-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and assault following the crash.

Myrah Hunter

A 1-year-old toddler who was killed in the crash while sitting on a porch.

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What’s next

Lamont Russell is being held in lieu of $335,000 bail, and the investigation into the specific circumstances that led to the assault charges is ongoing.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of driver safety and the need to prioritize the protection of pedestrians, especially in residential areas where young children may be present. It underscores the tragic consequences that can result from reckless driving and the ongoing efforts required to improve road safety and prevent such devastating accidents.