NEED TO KNOW
Four people were killed and two others were critically injured in a Sept. 4 crash in Southern California
Five of the six occupants were ejected from the vehicle, according to California Highway Patrol
Fundraisers have been launched to support the families of victims Rebekah Cabral-Gonzalez and Jason Potter
Four people were killed and two others were critically injured after a car veered off State Route 2 and plunged down an embankment near Wrightwood, Calif., early Friday morning.
The six Wrightwood residents were traveling eastbound in a black 2016 Hyundai Veloster on State Route 2 when the vehicle crashed at about 1:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, according to California Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred near Mile Post Marker 81.30, between Big Pines and Wrightwood along the eastern edge of the Angeles National Forest, the agency said.
The Hyundai was traveling eastbound when it left the roadway and overturned, eventually traveling down an embankment and striking a power pole, according to CHP.
Five of the six occupants were ejected. Four suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene, while the remaining two were taken to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in critical condition, according to the agency.
“Preliminary investigation indicates that none of the occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision, and that alcohol is likely a contributing factor in this crash,” CHP said.
Rebeka Cabral-Gonzalez
Credit: Gofundme
Three of those killed were identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as Rebeka Cabral-Gonzalez, 21, Jason Potter, 19, and Nevaeh Harper, 20, NBCLA reported.
A GoFundMe created in Cabral-Gonzalez’s memory describes her as a “bright light” and “free spirit” with an “incredible zest for life,” as well as a love for the outdoors. She was an athlete throughout school and participated in several school bands, according to the fundraiser.
Cabral-Gonzalez also worked as a ski instructor and was particularly compassionate toward children with special needs, according to the fundraiser.
“She had a natural ability to connect with people, especially those who needed someone willing to truly see them, listen to them, and believe in them,” the fundraiser states.
“Rebeka gave so much of herself to others. Now it is our turn to give back to her family,” the fundraiser states.
Jason Potter
Credit: Gofundme
Another victim, Potter, was remembered in a separate GoFundMe as a talented snowboarder with an infectious personality.
“Jason was an incredibly talented snowboarder who had a way of bringing so much life and energy into every space he entered,” the fundraiser’s organizer wrote.
The fundraiser states that donations will help Potter’s family with the financial burden of his unexpected death and give them time to grieve and honor him.
“Let’s surround the Potter family with the love, strength, and support of the community that is grieving with them,” the organizer wrote.
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“Jason was deeply loved. His energy, his talent, and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten,” the organizer added.
The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the California Highway Patrol.
The agency is urging motorists and passengers to wear seat belts and reminding drivers not to drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
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