Long Beach, California — Police in Long Beach have arrested a 24-year-old woman accused of being the driver in two separate deadly crashes, incidents that together claimed the lives of three people and added to what authorities say has been a troubling rise in traffic fatalities across the city.
Detectives identified Ahkeyajahnique Owens, a Long Beach resident, as the suspected driver in both collisions, which occurred just months apart in different parts of the city.
First Crash Left Bicyclist Dead
The first collision occurred on October 6, 2025, near East 4th Street and Bonito Avenue, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
Officers responding to the scene found a 35-year-old bicyclist unconscious on the roadway. The victim was later identified as Raul Augustin Gallopa, a Long Beach resident.
Gallopa was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
“The victim was located unresponsive and later died at the hospital,” police said while describing the October collision.
At the time, investigators continued working to identify the driver involved.
Second Crash Killed Two More in January
Just months later, a second fatal incident unfolded.
On January 4, 2026, officers responded to a reported hit-and-run crash near Atlantic Avenue and East 6th Street. Police said the collision proved even more devastating.
Authorities confirmed that two motorists — a man and a woman — were killed, while three additional people were injured and taken to area hospitals for treatment.
The severity of the crash prompted an extensive investigation involving forensic analysis and a review of surveillance and traffic camera footage.
Evidence Linked Both Crashes to Same Driver
According to investigators, forensic evidence and video footage played a key role in linking both deadly crashes to Owens.
Police did not immediately release details about the type of evidence used but said the findings were strong enough to identify her as the suspected driver in both cases.
“Investigators were able to connect the collisions through evidence and video analysis,” police stated.
Detectives continued building their case before taking enforcement action.
Suspect Turned Herself In
On January 7, Owens turned herself in at the Long Beach Police Department, authorities said.
She was taken into custody and booked at the Long Beach City Jail on a warrant for felony vehicular manslaughter related to the October 2025 bicyclist’s death.
Owens’ bail was set at $200,000, according to jail records.
Police said the case tied to the October crash has already been presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review and potential prosecution.
January Crash Still Under Review
While charges have been filed in connection with the October collision, police say the January 2026 crash remains under investigation.
Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and work with prosecutors to determine whether additional charges will be filed related to the two deaths and injuries from the January incident.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed whether speed, impairment, or other factors may have contributed to either crash.
Deadly Start to 2026 After Grim 2025
The January crash adds to what police describe as a disturbing trend on Long Beach roadways.
According to police data, at least 54 people were killed in traffic collisions in Long Beach in 2025, making it one of the deadliest years on record for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists in the city.
“Traffic safety continues to be a major concern,” police noted, as investigators work multiple fatal collision cases.
Officials have repeatedly urged motorists to slow down, remain alert, and watch for vulnerable road users, including bicyclists and pedestrians.
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Police Ask Public for Help
Investigators are still seeking information related to either collision.
Anyone with details is asked to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Edwin Paredes at 562-570-7110. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS.
Police say even small pieces of information could be critical as the case moves forward.
What steps do you think cities should take to reduce deadly crashes and hold reckless drivers accountable? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
