First responders were called to a traffic incident involving a pedestrian on the southbound 5 Freeway on the truck route close to the 5-14 Freeway interchange about 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, according to Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson Kaitlyn Aldana.
The victim has been identified as 42-year-old, Manuel Venegas and is said to have been a suicide, according to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) logs stated that Venegas was found lying facedown near the end of the truck tunnel in the slow lane after enduring traumatic injuries.
A car was found near the accident and is believed to be Venegas’ vehicle, according to initial CHP reports.
Anyone seeking information about mental health resources available in the Santa Clarita Valley can look here for a list of resources. There are 24-hour phone numbers available. In the event of an emergency, 911 should always be the first call. Those looking to speak with someone can call:
- 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline