Santa Monica fatal tunnel crash caused by speed; 1 dead, 7 injured

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (KABC) -- CHP investigators have determined the Santa Monica tunnel crash Friday was caused by a truck driver's excessive speed.

A 2-year-old Las Vegas boy died and seven others were injured when a big rig, a dump truck and a minivan collided on the eastbound lanes in the McClure Tunnel around 12:37 p.m.

The incident occurred as a 23-year-old truck driver from Panorama City approached the blind curve inside the tunnel at an excessive speed. The truck driver slammed on the brakes, but was unable to stop and skidded into the right lanes of the two-lane tunnel at the western end of the 10 Freeway, sideswiping a 2010 Honda minivan. The minivan was carrying two adults and five kids.

The truck then rear-ended another 18-wheeler loaded with drywall.

Two boys, ages 2 and 17, were loaded into a rescue helicopter at the Santa Monica Pier parking lot and transported to UCLA Medical Center, where the 2-year-old succumbed to his injuries. His name has not been released pending notification of kin.

The driver of the mini-van, a 42-year-old man, and a 28-year-old woman passenger suffered minor injuries. Three other passengers - a 4-year-old boy, a 12-year-old girl and a 15-year-old girl - suffered minor injuries.

As of Saturday, the 17-year-old remained in critical condition.

All lanes of the 10 Freeway were temporarily closed between Pacific Coast Highway and Lincoln Boulevard.

The Santa Monica Firefighters Association has established a fund to assist the family. People who wish to contribute can donate to Chase Bank account #3095918057. Cash or check can also be sent to:

SMFF - Looney Family

222 Hollister Ave.

Santa Monica, CA 90405

CNS contributed to this report.