GRANADA HILLS, CA — Community Mourns Andrew Lemus and Anthony Angulo After Tragic Fiery Collision
Granada Hills is reeling from grief following a horrific traffic accident that claimed the lives of two young men, 18-year-old Andrew Lemus and 20-year-old Anthony Angulo, Saturday evening. In what officials have described as a “tragic and fiery collision,” the pair perished when their vehicle burst into flames following a high-speed impact at the intersection of Chatsworth and Zelzah around 8:45 p.m.
According to preliminary Los Angeles Police Department reports, Andrew and Anthony were riding in a compact car that lost control, possibly swerving to avoid another vehicle, before slamming into a concrete barrier. The impact caused their vehicle to ignite in a sudden, intense blaze that engulfed the car within seconds. Emergency crews were on scene within minutes, but by then it was too late. Both young men succumbed to injuries at the scene; authorities confirmed there were no other passengers or drivers involved in the crash.
The intensity of the fire presented immense challenges for the first responders. Granada Hills Fire Department units worked alongside paramedics to extinguish the blaze and retrieved the victims from the mangled wreckage. Nearby residents reported hearing the collision before rushing outside to find thick black smoke and flames enveloping the vehicle. One witness recounted:
“I heard a massive crash, followed by this loud explosion, and then fire just shot up instantly. We all stood there horrified, hoping they’d get out, but it was too late.”
Friend and family tributes began pouring in almost immediately:
- Andrew Lemus, known for his bright smile and love of skateboarding, was remembered as “always ready with a joke to lift people’s spirits.” He had planned to attend college in the fall, majoring in graphic design.
- Anthony Angulo, described by loved ones as “compassionate and loyal,” worked part-time at a local auto shop and dreamed of opening his own garage one day.
Their families issued a shared statement through the community watch group:
“Andrew and Anthony were inseparable—best friends since elementary school, they were filled with dreams, ambition, and laughter. Their loss is unimaginable. We thank the community for your prayers, your love, and for honoring their short but incredible lives.”
Grief counselors have been stationed at Granada Hills Charter High School, where both Andrew and Anthony were beloved members of the student body. Students have begun leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes near the crash site and on campus.
LAPD traffic investigators have launched a full investigation to determine whether speeding or road conditions were to blame. With Granada Hills known for narrow streets and limited lighting in this area, questions are being raised about community safety and whether enhanced street lighting or additional barriers could prevent similar tragedies.
“This horrifying loss is a reminder of how unforgiving our roads can be. We will be reviewing this stretch of road with the city engineering department to see what safety enhancements might be necessary.”
A joint candlelight vigil for Andrew and Anthony is scheduled for Thursday night at 7 p.m. near Zelzah Park. High school students, teachers, coaches, and families are expected to attend to honor their memories and support the grieving families.
Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral costs and provide support to the families during this difficult time. Donations have begun pouring in, reflecting the deep love and respect the community holds for both young men.
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for safer driving in Granada Hills, particularly among young drivers. Both families have urged residents to remember Andrew and Anthony not only for their untimely passing, but for the joy, kindness, and determination they brought into the world.
“They would want us to look out for each other—and make the roads safer so no one else endures this kind of heartache.”
🌟 Lasting Remembrance
Even in grief, the Granada Hills community is remembering the light Andrew and Anthony shared. Their legacies—Andrew’s creativity and contagious humor, Anthony’s compassion and drive—will continue through the small acts of kindness and laughter they inspired. And while words cannot ease the pain of their families and friends, the unity and memorials stand as a powerful testament to their unforgettable impact on Granada Hills.
May Andrew Lemus and Anthony Angulo rest in peace. They will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them—and in a community forever changed by their loss.