Four young friends lost their lives in what appears to be a preventable car accident on the 605 Freeway in Norwalk, California, caused by a suspected DUI driver, profoundly impacting their families and community. On July 20, shortly after 1 a.m., four 24-year-olds—Julie Harmori, Armando Del Campo, Jordan Partridge, and Sam Skocili—were killed in a fiery car crash on the 605 Freeway in Norwalk.
The group was returning home from a concert when their Nissan initially collided with a California Highway Patrol (CHP) cruiser on the highway; the reason for this collision remains under investigation. After the initial crash, the Nissan became disabled, and the car was struck from behind at high speed by a Kia sedan, which caused the Nissan to burst into flames and fatally trapped the four friends inside.
One victim, Partridge, was able to call her mother after the first collision, but the call ended abruptly just before the fatal impact. Hospitalized with serious injuries were the driver of the Kia, 26-year-old Iris Salmeron of Bellflower, and her passenger.
The CHP officer escaped unharmed. Salmeron was arrested and faces multiple felony charges, including driving under the influence (DUI). Authorities have emphasized that the tragedy was entirely preventable, highlighting the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
Loved ones remember the victims as close friends who enjoyed spending time together, and their parents are offering mutual support as they grieve. The victims’ families established a joint GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses. The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the horrific car accident.
Brian Chase
Articles and blogs have been reviewed by legal in-house staff. Brian Chase is the managing partner of Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys, LLP. He is the lead trial lawyer and oversees cases handling dangerous and defective products that injure consumers. Brian is a top-rated injury attorney with numerous legal honors and awards for his work relating to auto defects and dangerous products. His firm has recovered over $1B for its clients. Brian is a frequent speaker for CAOC, Dordick Trial College and OCTLA, covering personal injury trial techniques.
