A 37-year-old man was killed Sunday evening when the driver of a Subaru WRX lost control and crashed into a tree on Santa Clara Drive in Pomona. The crash occurred at approximately 7 p.m. on June 7, 2026, near Calle Del Mar. The driver, identified as 47-year-old Jorge Abascal of Covina, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. The passenger found in the back seat was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency medical efforts.
What Happened
According to the Pomona Police Department, Jorge Abascal was driving a black Subaru WRX northbound on Santa Clara Drive near Calle Del Mar when he lost control of the vehicle. The car left the roadway and crashed into a tree, causing significant damage. Officers arriving at the scene found Abascal outside the vehicle. His passenger, an unidentified 37-year-old man, was found in the back seat suffering from serious injuries. Los Angeles County firefighters and police provided emergency medical care at the scene, but the passenger was pronounced dead. Abascal was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in connection with the fatal crash.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Pomona Police Department officers and Los Angeles County firefighters responded to Santa Clara Drive near Calle Del Mar following the crash. The 37-year-old passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. Jorge Abascal was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI. The Pomona Police Department is continuing its investigation into the full circumstances of the crash.
Injuries and Community Impact
The 37-year-old passenger, whose identity had not been publicly released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Abascal survived the crash and was arrested. The collision occurred in a residential area of Pomona near Ranch Hills Elementary School.
Understanding Legal Rights After a DUI Crash Kills a Passenger
When a suspected impaired driver causes a crash that results in a passenger’s death, the victim’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim under California law. As a passenger, the 37-year-old victim generally would not be considered responsible for causing the collision. In California, a DUI arrest can become important evidence in a civil wrongful death case. The family does not need to wait for the outcome of the criminal case before filing a civil wrongful death claim. An experienced car accident attorney can pursue full compensation for the family — including funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship — independent of and simultaneously with the criminal proceedings against Abascal.
If your family has been affected by this crash or any serious DUI collision in Pomona or the greater Los Angeles area, our Norwalk office is ready to fight for the justice and accountability you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation — our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee unless we win your case.
Nearest Office: Norwalk, CA
Phone: 714-714-7100
Source: KTLA
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Crockett Law Group of any inaccuracies you identify. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
