Driver Behind Bars After Crash That Killed 5

4 Children, Driver Dead After Multi-Vehicle Accident On Interstate 5 In Santa Clarita

An unlicensed driver was behind bars Tuesday on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter in connection with a multi-vehicle crash that killed five people on Interstate 5 in the Newhall Pass.

Victor M. Jarillo, 34, of Los Angeles, was driving a 1994 Chevrolet Suburban that crashed into a Nissan Altima, killing four children just before midnight Sunday, according to the California Highway Patrol.

John J. Blackburn, 53, of Frazier Park, whose Mazda pickup truck spun out and triggered the collision, also died in the crash. Six others were injured, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Blackburn's truck slammed into the center divider and flipped onto its roof, CHP Officer John Lutz said.

The Altima, which was being driven by Francisco Enciso, 25, of Daly City, was struck by Jarillo's Suburban.

Enciso suffered major injuries and Yessica Milan, a 27-year-old passenger in the Nissan, was hospitalized in critical condition. Her three children and nephew in the back seat died, Lutz said.

The children were identified as Xochitl Hernandez, 5, Cynthia Hernandez, 9, and Edgar Hernandez, 8. Lutz said her nephew was 16-year-old Luis Villegas of Oakland.

"I can't really describe it. We're all in shock," family relative Carlos Vasquez said.

The family went to Northern California to pick up a First Communion dress for one of the children and were returning home when the crash occurred, Vasquez said.

Jarillo and three other people in the Suburban, including an infant and a toddler, were treated for minor injuries, Lutz said.

They were identified as Joana M. Avina, 27, of Los Angeles, Emmanuel Jarillo, 1, and Jesus Jarillo, 2.

Victor Jarillo was found to be driving without a license and was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, Lutz said.

Avina also was taken into custody on suspicion of providing false information to investigating officers.

A memorial account has been set up at Wells Fargo Bank to help provide funds for the burials of the children. To donate, visit any Wells Fargo and make a deposit into account number 3164793865.

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