Fatal South Pasadena Crash After Police Chase

From ABC7

On Friday, September 19, 2025, a 20-year-old man died when a stolen Dodge Charger crashed into a garage on Orange Grove Avenue in South Pasadena. The crash occurred just after 5 a.m., shortly after Pasadena police had called off a high-speed pursuit due to unsafe driving.

The vehicle flipped onto its hood and smashed into a residential garage, heavily damaging the home. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. No residents were reported injured, but Orange Grove Avenue remained closed for hours while police investigated.

Legal Perspective on Police Pursuit Crashes

This tragic event raises important questions about high-speed pursuits, stolen vehicles, and liability. Even though police called off the chase before the crash, the chain of events still began with the pursuit. In California, these cases can become very complex because:

Property damage: The homeowner whose garage was destroyed may have a valid property damage claim.
Injuries or wrongful death: If any residents or bystanders had been harmed, this could have led to a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
Police pursuit laws: California law provides certain protections to police agencies during pursuits, but it also outlines strict guidelines on when and how officers can engage.

While in this situation the only fatality was the driver, it highlights the risks innocent residents face when pursuits spill into neighborhoods.

Call to Action

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a South Pasadena crash, whether from a police pursuit, reckless driver, or stolen vehicle, you may have legal options. At Custodio & Dubey LLP, attorney Miguel Custodio and our team can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call us today at (213) 593-9095
🏢 Visit us: 445 S. Figueroa St., Suite 2520, Los Angeles, CA 90071
🌐 Learn more: CD-Lawyers.com