The families of Juliana “Julie” Hamori and Armand Del Campo, victims of a fatal crash on the 605 Freeway in Norwalk, are demanding answers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP). On Tuesday, the families alleged that a CHP officer rear-ended the couple’s Nissan sedan and failed to secure the scene, leading to a second collision with a Kia that caused the Nissan to burst into flames. All four occupants of the Nissan, including Hamori, Del Campo, and their friends Jordan Partridge and Samantha Skocilic, died at the scene.
The tragic incident occurred on July 20 as the group was returning from a concert at The Belasco. According to The Orange County Register, the families filed a government claim against the CHP and Officer Angelo Rodriguez, marking the first step toward a civil lawsuit. They are questioning why the officer allegedly left the scene without securing the disabled vehicle.
Angie Reed, Del Campo’s mother, revealed that her son had called her after the initial collision, assuring her they were waiting for police assistance. However, a second crash occurred, allegedly involving a drunk driver, identified as Iris Salmeron, who has since been charged with multiple felonies, including DUI.
During a press conference, attorney Thomas Feher emphasized the need for answers, stating, “Four young adults have lost their lives. They should have been protected.” The families are also seeking access to evidence, including data recorders and video footage, to understand the sequence of events.
The CHP has expressed condolences to the families but stated that both crashes remain under investigation. They have 45 days to respond to the government claim, which could lead to a lawsuit if rejected.
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