The collision was reported about 5:30 a.m. near Via Verde Street and initially forced the full shutdown of the eastbound side of the freeway, according to the California Highway Patrol. Three lanes were later reopened, but traffic remained congested at the scene.
The pileup involved a motorcycle, two sedans and several other vehicles, according to a CHP incident report.
The identity of the deceased person was not immediately released.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.