Tractor-Trailer Hits Car, Kills 2

A tractor-trailer rig crashed into the rear of a car on the westbound Ventura Freeway in Tarzana shortly after dawn today, killing two men, injuring a third and creating a traffic jam that lasted into the morning rush hour, the California Highway Patrol reported.

One of those killed--a passenger in the car--was hurled from the vehicle and into the roadway. The car’s driver died in the wreckage. Their names were withheld pending notification of kin. The third victim, Jose Ruiz, 42, was reported in critical condition at Northridge Medical Center. Officers said the crash occurred when the car slowed suddenly and the truck was unable to brake in time to avoid it. The truck driver was not cited pending further investigation.