Westminster, CA — Two people were injured on the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, after a three-car crash sparked a vehicle fire on the 405 Freeway in Orange County. The collision happened around 5:21 p.m. on the southbound lanes near Bolsa Avenue, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.
Crews arrived promptly, extinguished the flames, and provided medical aid to the injured individuals at the scene. The accident is still under investigation as of Wednesday, January 8th, and the victim’s condition is still unknown. The California Highway Patrol will lead the investigation.
Update: One person has been killed in the accident, and another has suffered moderate injuries in the crash.
A Dangerous Area in Westminster
There is a history of car accidents in this area of Orange County. In November 2025, there was a fatal pedestrian accident near Bolsa Avenue and Ward Street. On January 24th, 2026, there was a high-speed crash when a vehicle struck a utility pole and caught on fire near Westminster and Bolsa.
The area has a high volume of traffic and a somewhat complex road design. Dangerous road designs or dangerous intersections are often responsible for motor vehicle accidents. The extreme congestion on Bolsa Avenue has always been an issue, and the presence of stores and eateries often leads to traffic and pedestrian accidents.
Brian Chase
Articles, blogs, and content 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.
