Driver Killed In Fatal PCH Head-On Collision Identified By Authorities

MALIBU, CA — Authorities have identified the person who was killed in a head-on collision on Pacific Coast Highway on the Fourth of July.

Martin Okeke, 44, died from multiple traumatic injuries in the crash, according to the Los Angeles County Office of Medical Examiner.

The collision occurred just after 10 p.m. Thursday on PCH near the intersection of Carbon Canyon Road, according to the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station.

Deputies' preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Mercedes Benz that was traveling eastbound crossed the center median and collided head-on with a 2020 Cadillac that was traveling westbound, deputies said Friday afternoon.

The driver of the Cadillac was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger in that vehicle, as well as the driver of the Mercedes, were transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, according to deputies.

Deputies said it's unclear why the driver of the Mercedes crossed into the center median and that the investigation is ongoing.

KTLA published photos of the collision's aftermath, which showed a white sedan with severe front-end damage in the middle of the highway with a black SUV, also with front-end damage, off to the side.

All lanes of PCH were closed in the area as authorities investigated the crash. The road was fully reopened by about 8:30 a.m. Friday, according to deputies.

Deputies are seeking witnesses who may have information about the crash. Anyone with information is asked to call the Malibu/Lost Hills Station at 818-878-1808.

The crash comes as officials have been focusing on boosting safety on PCH in recent months following an October crash that killed four Pepperdine students. Over 60 people have been killed on the road, known for its dangerous driving conditions, since 2011, according to the city.

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City News Service contributed to this report.