105 Freeway Shooting in South L.A. Causes Major Traffic Standstill Near Vermont Avenue
A reported shooting on the eastbound 105 Freeway in South Los Angeles brought traffic to a complete standstill on April 16, 2026, as California Highway Patrol (CHP) and emergency crews responded to a serious incident near Vermont Avenue in the Athens area.
According to CHP officials, calls began coming in around 1:45 p.m. reporting possible highway violence. Multiple witnesses also reported a vehicle stopped in the HOV lane with a person slumped over the steering wheel, possibly suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders, including the Los Angeles Fire Department, arrived at the scene and located a partially responsive victim inside the vehicle. The individual was transported to a nearby hospital, though their condition has not yet been released.
The incident caused significant disruption on the freeway, with footage showing heavy congestion and vehicles backed up for miles while investigators worked the scene. Authorities have not released the identity, age, or gender of the victim.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not yet confirmed further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Drivers in the area were urged to expect delays as lanes remained impacted during the emergency response.