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Mission Hills Collision: Inmate Transport Van Crash Sparks Multi-Vehicle Pileup

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 14:29 GMT by NBC Los Angeles

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Chaos in Mission Hills: Inmate Transport Van Collision Sparks Multi-Vehicle Pileup, Injuring Multiple People

A chaotic scene unfolded in Mission Hills, Los Angeles on Tuesday afternoon as an LA County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) inmate transport van was involved in a collision that triggered a multi-vehicle pileup. The incident, occurring around 2:30 PM near the intersection of Woodman Avenue and Sepulveda Boulevard, resulted in multiple injuries and significant traffic disruption, raising questions about vehicle safety protocols within the department.

According to initial reports from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and NBC Los Angeles, the transport van, carrying inmates en route to a court appearance, collided with another vehicle for reasons still under investigation. This impact then set off a chain reaction involving at least seven other vehicles, creating a tangled mess of metal and debris across the intersection.

The immediate aftermath was described as chaotic. Witnesses reported seeing flashing lights, emergency personnel rushing to the scene, and visibly shaken individuals emerging from their cars. Footage captured by bystanders showed the severity of the damage, with several vehicles sustaining significant front-end and side impacts. The LASD confirmed that inmates were present in the transport van at the time of the crash, but thankfully, none sustained serious injuries. They were quickly secured and transferred to another vehicle for continued transportation to their destination.

"We are currently investigating the cause of this collision," stated Deputy Maria Hernandez, a spokesperson for the LASD. "Our priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved, including our deputies, inmates, and civilians." She emphasized that the investigation will thoroughly examine all factors contributing to the accident, including driver error, mechanical failure, and road conditions.

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded swiftly, deploying multiple units to provide medical assistance. At least five people were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to moderate. While initial reports suggested a greater number of injuries, LASD later clarified that the count was lower than initially estimated. The LAFD used hydraulic rescue tools ("Jaws of Life") to extract at least one individual from their vehicle, indicating the force involved in the collision.

The incident has renewed scrutiny of the LASD's inmate transport procedures and the condition of its vehicles. While the department utilizes specially designed vans for transporting inmates – often equipped with reinforced cages and security features – concerns have been raised regarding maintenance schedules and overall fleet reliability. [ As reported previously by LAist ], LASD vehicle maintenance records reveal a history of deferred maintenance and safety issues across the department's fleet. This includes inmate transport vans, raising questions about whether preventative upkeep could have prevented this latest incident. The report highlighted that many vehicles are overdue for routine inspections and repairs, potentially contributing to mechanical failures.

This isn’t an isolated event either. In 2023, a similar LASD vehicle involved in transporting inmates was involved in a collision in South Los Angeles [ as detailed by the LA Times ]. While that incident didn't result in serious injuries, it further underscored concerns about the safety of these operations and the vehicles used.

The ongoing investigation will likely focus on several key areas. Traffic investigators are working to determine fault, analyzing vehicle black box data (if available) and interviewing witnesses. The LASD Internal Affairs Division is also expected to conduct a parallel review, examining the actions of the deputies involved in the transport and evaluating adherence to departmental policies regarding inmate transportation protocols. This includes reviewing driver training records and assessing any potential deviations from standard operating procedures.

The closure of Sepulveda Boulevard and Woodman Avenue caused significant traffic delays throughout the afternoon commute. Authorities urged drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. The roadway remained closed for several hours as crews worked to clear the wreckage and conduct a thorough investigation.

Beyond the immediate consequences of injuries and traffic disruption, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with law enforcement operations, particularly those involving vulnerable populations like inmates. The LASD faces renewed pressure to address concerns about vehicle maintenance, driver training, and overall safety protocols to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The outcome of the investigation will likely inform policy changes aimed at improving the safety of inmate transportation within Los Angeles County.

This incident highlights a recurring issue – the need for consistent investment in preventative maintenance and rigorous oversight of LASD’s vehicle fleet, not just for the safety of inmates but also for the public and law enforcement personnel involved.