Young Marine Adrian Carrillo and Girlfriend Among Three Lost in Panorama City Multi-Vehicle Collision

Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley carries the weight of everyday commutes, family errands, and holiday rushes, but on the evening of December 12, 2025, one intersection became the site of profound loss. At Terra Bella Street and Woodman Avenue in Panorama City, a multi-vehicle collision claimed the lives of three individuals, including 26-year-old active-duty U.S. Marine Adrian Carrillo from Arleta and his 25-year-old girlfriend Heybi Herrera-Bautista. The third person lost was 24-year-old Clemente Meza Guerrero, the driver of a gray Plymouth minivan. A passenger in the minivan remains in critical condition at a local hospital. As families grapple with sudden grief just weeks before the holidays, investigators continue their work, and the community rallies around those affected.

Adrian Carrillo represented the dedication many admire in service members. Raised in Arleta, he enlisted in the Marines and served with commitment, recently stationed where he handled logistics and supported his unit. Family and friends described him as deeply faithful, family-oriented, and always ready to lend a hand. His cousin, Juan Bautista, who grew up close to him, shared heartfelt memories at the growing memorial site filled with flowers, candles, and notes. “He was like the brother I never ever had,” Bautista said. “I just loved him so much. He was such a good person. He dedicated himself to God. He took care of his parents so much.” Bautista expressed frustration over the sudden loss of someone so young, adding, “I had so many things planned so we could just hang out. Adrian, I’m going to miss you so much. You’re always going to be in my heart… always, always.”

Carrillo had recently purchased a blue Ford Mustang, a symbol of his achievements and independence. On that Friday night, around 9:30 p.m., he and Herrera-Bautista were traveling southbound on Woodman Avenue in the Mustang, likely heading to a casual outing or running an errand. Herrera-Bautista, known for her warm personality and close ties to her loved ones, shared a meaningful relationship with Carrillo. The couple’s time together reflected the simple joys many young adults cherish – evenings out, family gatherings, and plans for the future.

The sequence leading to the collision began earlier that evening. Authorities believe Meza Guerrero, driving the older-model gray Plymouth minivan westbound on Terra Bella Street, was leaving the scene of a separate minor incident nearby. Approaching the intersection with Woodman Avenue, the minivan proceeded through a red light at high speed and struck the southbound Mustang broadside. The force also involved a tan Honda Civic traveling in the same direction as the Mustang. Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived promptly, but Carrillo, Herrera-Bautista, and Meza Guerrero could not be saved. The minivan’s passenger sustained serious injuries and was transported for treatment.

Adding another layer to the investigation, the driver of the Honda Civic exited the vehicle after the impact and left the area on foot without providing information or assistance, as required by law. Los Angeles Police Department detectives from the Valley Traffic Division are actively seeking this individual, reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic signals to aid identification.

Neighbors and passersby quickly transformed the intersection into a place of remembrance. By Saturday morning, dozens had stopped to leave tributes. Local resident Anissa Avelar, who lives nearby, noted the frequency of incidents in the area, saying accidents occur “at least once or twice a month.” Another neighbor, Sebastian Porras, paused to reflect, urging greater caution on the roads: “Rest in peace to those souls. I really hope that people can really understand to just drive safely. Our lives are so important, and anything can happen within seconds.” The outpouring underscores the tight-knit nature of Panorama City, where many families have deep roots in the Valley’s diverse communities.

The timing amplifies the sorrow for Carrillo’s family. Some accounts mention he was home on leave, cherishing time with loved ones during the holiday season. His parents, who have faced challenges in recent years, now navigate this immense void. Bautista’s words captured the raw emotion many feel: the anger mixed with profound sadness over a life full of potential cut short at 26.

Police have classified the case with attention to multiple elements, including the minivan driver’s actions prior to the intersection and the Honda driver’s departure. No indications of impairment have been publicly detailed at this stage, pending full reports. Detectives encourage anyone with information to contact the Valley Traffic Division directly or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

The broader Marine Corps community has also responded. While official statements from the branch await confirmation of details, fellow service members and veterans’ groups have expressed support online and through local networks. Carrillo’s service highlighted qualities like responsibility and care for others, traits evident in how he prioritized family.

Panorama City’s streets, lined with apartments, small shops, and schools, see steady traffic flow day and night. Intersections like Woodman and Terra Bella handle cross-traffic from residential areas and commercial routes, making awareness key for all drivers. Community members have voiced hopes that this incident prompts renewed focus on safe habits, especially during busy seasons.

Memorial efforts continue to grow. A candlelight vigil was organized for Sunday evening at the site, drawing family, friends, and supporters to honor the lives lost. Online funds and messages of condolence have poured in, reflecting widespread sympathy.

Investigators remain committed to a thorough review, examining vehicle data, witness statements, and physical evidence. The search for the Honda driver persists, with appeals for public assistance.

In the San Fernando Valley, where daily routines intersect with larger dreams, this collision serves as a poignant reminder of life’s unpredictability. For the families of Adrian Carrillo, Heybi Herrera-Bautista, and Clemente Meza Guerrero, the path forward involves healing amid cherished memories. The community stands alongside them, offering support as details emerge and justice is pursued.

As holidays approach, tributes at the intersection glow softly under streetlights – symbols of lives remembered and lessons in caution embraced.