Watch CBS News

1 Killed In Wrong-Way Collision On 14 Freeway In Acton

ACTON (CBSLA.com) — Authorities Saturday said a wrong-way driver caused a deadly crash in the Antelope Valley.

The accident occurred about 3:30 a.m. on the northbound lanes of the 14 Freeway above Escondido Canyon Road in Acton.

Investigators say a black 2006 Toyota Tundra heading south on those northbound lanes struck a silver 2006 Chrysler 300 head-on.

"We don't know where he entered the freeway at. Our first report was up by Red Rover Mine Road. It's above three miles north of here," said CHP Sgt. Paul Reyes. "I was very surprised he made it this far."

Manard Giles
Manard Giles was killed by a wrong-way driver on the 14 Freeway. (credit: Facebook)

The driver of that Chrysler, identified as 77-year-old Manard Giles of Quartz Hill, was killed.

Giles' two passengers were taken to a hospital in critical condition, as was the driver of the pickup truck, identified as Bradford Pate, 38, Burbank.

A CHP collision report says Pate was taken to Henry Mayo Hospital for treatment of major injuries. He is expected to be booked on suspicion of DUI causing injury.

Investigators say a third vehicle, described as a Ride Share van carrying nine people, was also struck.

"Two people in the Ride Share van were injured with minor injuries. One person in another vehicle was deceased from this collision. The wrong-way driver was taken to the hospital and apparently under the influence of something, possibly DUI," CHP officer Ed Jacobs told KNX 1070.

1 Killed In Wrong-Way Collision On 14 Freeway In Acton

A similar crash on Monday left 13 people injured. That crash occurred in the exact same location and involved nine vehicles.

Investigators say the alleged wrong-way driver in that crash was subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Police do not believe the two crashes are related.

The collision remains under investigation.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.