CHP: 68 People Died in Calif. Crashes During July 4 Holiday Weekend

LOS ANGELES -- A total of 68 people were killed in crashes throughout California during the Independence Day maximum enforcement period (MEP), which began at 6:01 p.m. Friday, June 30 and concluded at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, July 4, the California Highway Patrol said today.

Nearly half of the vehicle occupants who died within CHP jurisdiction were not wearing a seat belt.

The total numbers for Los Angeles County and Orange County were not immediately available.

Officers made 1,224 arrests for driving under the influence and issued 9,700 citations for speeding, according to the CHP.

``The results of this MEP are concerning and reinforce the need for responsible behavior behind the wheel,'' CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said.

``All of these deaths were preventable, and the loved ones they leave behind will be forever impacted.''

The next MEP is scheduled for Labor Day weekend.

-- City News Service