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Former CHP Officer Charged with Murder in Deadly L.A. Freeway Crash
Prosecutors say the officer was driving over 130 mph and failed to render aid, leading to a second fatal collision.
Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:11pm
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A former California Highway Patrol officer named Angelo Rodriguez has been charged with murder for his role in a chain-reaction crash on the 605 Freeway near Norwalk last summer that left four people dead. Prosecutors allege Rodriguez was driving his patrol car at over 130 mph and failed to render aid or warn other drivers, leading to a second collision that caused an explosion and killed the four victims.
Why it matters
This case raises serious questions about officer accountability and the need for stricter policies around high-speed pursuits and crash response protocols, especially when they result in tragic loss of life. It also highlights the dangers of drunk driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent victims.
The details
According to prosecutors, on July 20th, Rodriguez slammed his patrol car into a Nissan Versa near the Rosecrans Avenue exit, disabling the vehicle. Instead of helping the occupants or warning other drivers, Rodriguez allegedly moved his damaged cruiser to the side of the road. Minutes later, a drunk driver named Iris Salmeron, who had been drinking at a restaurant and friend's house, crashed into the Nissan at over 100 mph, causing an explosion that killed all four people inside - Julie Hamori, Armand Del Campo, Jordan Partridge, and Samantha Skocilik.
- On July 20th, Rodriguez allegedly crashed into the Nissan Versa at over 130 mph.
- Minutes later, Salmeron crashed into the disabled Nissan at over 100 mph, causing a fatal explosion.
The players
Angelo Rodriguez
A former California Highway Patrol officer who has been charged with murder for his role in the deadly freeway crash.
Iris Salmeron
The driver of the second car that crashed into the disabled Nissan, killing all four occupants. Salmeron has also been charged with murder.
Julie Hamori
One of the four victims killed in the crash.
Armand Del Campo
One of the four victims killed in the crash, who was engaged to Julie Hamori.
Jordan Partridge
One of the four victims killed in the crash.
Samantha Skocilik
One of the four victims killed in the crash.
What they’re saying
“This horrible tragedy could have been prevented had this officer not been driving at ridiculously high speeds for no reason whatsoever.”
— Nathan Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney (Los Angeles Times)
“It's incomprehensible. CHP officers know to secure scenes. They know the risk of drunk drivers on the freeway.”
— Darren Aitken, Attorney representing victims' families (Los Angeles Times)
What’s next
Rodriguez and Salmeron are expected to be arraigned in the Bellflower Courthouse on Tuesday.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the need for stronger accountability and oversight of law enforcement, as well as the devastating consequences that can result from a combination of reckless driving and drunk driving. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of responsible behavior on our roads and highways.
