LAKE ELSINORE, CA — The California Highway Patrol has identified the victim of a fatal crash as 21-year-old Tommy Vaca from Lake Elsinore. The young man lost his life when his vehicle collided with a tree and fire hydrant on Wednesday.
The incident occurred around 12:20 p.m. in the 14900 block of Amorose Street, near Grand Avenue, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Vaca was driving along the residential street when his vehicle lost control, striking a tree and a fire hydrant. The impact sheared off the hydrant, resulting in a significant water flow, as reported by the CHP.
Despite immediate response from paramedics, Vaca was pronounced dead at the scene. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Technicians were called in to manage the water flow, turning it off and repairing the damaged hydrant.
As of Thursday, it remains unknown whether alcohol or drugs may have played a role in the crash. The incident is currently under investigation by authorities.