22-Year-Old Firefighter Recruit Pronounced Dead after Multi-Vehicle Collision near Campo de Cahuenga

STUDIO CITY, CA (April 18, 2024) – Jacob Fuerte died early Monday morning in a 2-car accident on northbound 101 Freeway. The incident occurred at approximately 5:00 a.m., near Campo de Cahuenga.

Per the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a firefighter operating a 2000 Jeep was involved in a collision with a 2021 Ford driven by 36-year-old Derek Tapia from Montclair. Following the collision, the firefighter exited his vehicle and was subsequently struck by another vehicle whose driver remains unidentified, resulting in fatal injuries.

The firefighter, identified as 22-year-old Jacob Fuerte from Riverside, was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Fuerte was in the tenth week of a twenty-week training program for the Los Angeles Fire Department. Notably, his father serves as a veteran firefighter/paramedic with seventeen years of experience in the department.

Emergency services temporarily closed off the surrounding area for cleanup and initial investigations. Studio City Officials are currently treating the incident as a hit-and-run, although the identity of the suspect remains undisclosed.

Individuals who witnessed the crash are urged to reach out to the CHP West Valley Office at 818-888-0980. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

The team at Sweet James sends out their heartfelt sympathies to the friends and family of Jacob Fuerte who are grieving over the loss of their loved one.

Losing a loved one in a car crash can come with a heavy burden. Do not settle for the circumstances that come from someone’s negligence. Call their office at 1-800-900-0000 to know more about how they can help you. Need help after hours? You can reach them 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. For more accident news, click here. The original source can be found here.

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