Pedestrian Fatally Struck on 5 Freeway in Anaheim

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Emergency responders at the scene of a tragic pedestrian accident on the 5 Freeway.

News Summary

A fatal accident occurred on the 5 Freeway in Anaheim early Friday morning when a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle near Gene Autry Way and Katella Avenue. The incident, which has raised concerns over pedestrian safety in California, has led to significant traffic disruptions and an ongoing investigation by the California Highway Patrol. Emergency services pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene, while the driver is cooperating with investigators. Authorities are working to identify the victim and determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Anaheim, CA – A pedestrian was fatally struck in a tragic accident on the 5 Freeway early Friday morning, May 15, 2025. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. near the intersection of Gene Autry Way and Katella Avenue, leading to significant traffic disruptions and ongoing investigations.

The pedestrian was reportedly walking on the right shoulder of the freeway when they were hit by a vehicle. Emergency medical personnel arrived shortly after the incident and pronounced the victim dead at the scene. The identity of the victim, including their age and gender, has not yet been released by authorities.

In the wake of the incident, the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. A witness indicated that a truck initially struck the pedestrian in the middle lanes before the involvement of a Honda Civic. This information is part of an active investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), which responded to the crash site at 2:33 a.m.

A SigAlert was issued at 2:18 a.m., shutting down the southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway and the Euclid Street on-ramp to manage the incident. Traffic was diverted off at Euclid Street, causing congestion that extended back to Valley View Avenue. Emergency crews managed to reopen the far right lane of the freeway at 3:11 a.m., and all lanes were reopened by approximately 7 a.m.

The surrounding area was cordoned off for investigatory purposes until about 4:30 a.m. Authorities are currently awaiting the arrival of the Orange County coroner to proceed further in identifying the deceased and determining the circumstances leading up to the accident.

This incident has raised serious concerns about pedestrian safety in California, a state that has recently been identified as one of the deadliest for pedestrians. According to statistics, pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply in California over the past few years, highlighting the need for improved safety measures along roadways.

Currently, the investigation is ongoing as authorities work to gather more information related to the accident and continue to look into the events leading up to the fatal incident. Further updates, including the identity of the victim and any potential safety measures that may be proposed in response to the tragedy, are anticipated as the investigation progresses.