Long Beach, CA (February 21, 2024) A devastating two-vehicle collision left 60-year-old Roger Lee Watkins dead and another injured on Tuesday night, February 20th. The violent collision took place just before midnight at the intersection of Anaheim Street and Atlantic Avenue, according to authorities.
It was late at night in Long Beach as two vehicles were approaching the intersection of Anaheim Street and Atlantic Avenue. Officers reported that a 2012 Lexus IS250 was traveling north on Atlantic Avenue, while a 2012 Ford Focus, driven by Watkins was heading east on Anaheim Street. The two vehicles entered the intersection at the same time, causing the Lexus to hit the side of the Ford. The initial collision caused the driver of the Ford to lose control, officers said. The Ford went off the road and crashed into a signal light before slamming into an abandoned building. The driver of the Lexus also lost control and crashed into a bus bench on the side of the road.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene and located the two vehicles, which were badly damaged. The 31-year-old Lexus driver, a Long Beach resident, was found with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Paramedics transported them to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Watkins, who was driving the Ford, was found trapped inside his vehicle, officers said. Paramedics did everything they could to save Watkins, but in the end, nothing could be done. He was, sadly, pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel.
Police officers believe that distracted driving, speed and possibly impaired driving were factors in this devastating collision in Long Beach. Detectives gathered evidence from the scene and are working to determine exactly what happened at this intersection, as well as who was at fault.
Our team at Accident News Now extends our deepest condolences to the family of Roger Lee Watkins during this difficult time. If you have been affected by this accident, our team of legal professionals is here to assist you or to simply answer any questions you may have. They are available any time, day or night.
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