Arda Gulesserian Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on 73 Freeway [NEWPORT BEACH, CA]

65-Year-Old Corona Del Mar Woman Dies in Wrong-Way Crash on 73 Freeway near Campus Drive

 
NEWPORT BEACH, CA (June 5, 2019) – A woman was killed following a wrong-way crash Wednesday morning in Newport Beach, authorities said.
 
The crash happened just before 9:00 a.m. on 73 Freeway near Campus Drive and Birch Street.
 
Witnesses told officers that a silver Mercedes-Benz, driven by a 23-year-old Luke Fitch of Newport Beach, was speeding southbound in the northbound lanes of the freeway at more than 100 mph, when it crashed head-on into a white BMW.
 
The driver of the BMW was pronounced dead at the scene. She was later identified by family members as Arda Gulesserian, 65, of Corona del Mar.
 
Fitch was extricated from his vehicle and taken to the Orange County Global Medical Center in critical condition.
 
After the initial crash, a white Lexus collided with the Mercedes, but nobody in the Lexus was injured, authorities said.
 
It is unclear why the Mercedes was traveling the wrong way on the freeway, although some media outlets reported it may have been intentional. Officers were not able to get a statement from the driver because of his injuries.
 
Three northbound lanes of the freeway were closed as the investigation and cleanup operation were conducted at the scene.

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During this moment of grief, we would like to extend our sincere sympathies and thoughts of courage and comfort to the family and friends of Arda Gulesserian.

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Wrongful deaths instantly change the lives of many families. If you have lost a loved one in a tragic accident, we at the Sweet Lawyers are extending our services to get your bereaved family obtain justice and maximum settlement you deserve. Our experienced wrongful death lawyers can help you with your case. For more details, please reach our office at (800) 674 7852 and schedule a free consultation.