Long Beach Daily: Fatal Tunnel Crash, Flooded Streets, and Policing Updates

Long Beach, CA – February 22, 2026 – Here is a quick look at the most important local stories from the last couple of days.

Four killed in fiery tunnel crash near Long Beach Airport

Investigators are examining speed and possible impairment after a deadly single-car crash near Long Beach Airport that left four people dead early Saturday. Police say a Honda Accord heading south on Lakewood Boulevard hit the median, lost control and struck a support wall in the tunnel under the runway, triggering a fire that engulfed the vehicle. Two men and two women were pronounced dead at the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board has sent a team to assist the investigation, and portions of Lakewood Boulevard and nearby freeway ramps were shut for hours while crews worked the scene.

Storm damage and flooding still affecting key corridors

Long Beach is still dealing with the aftermath of a powerful winter storm that drenched Southern California last week. Heavy rain flooded portions of the 710 Freeway near Long Beach Boulevard, stranding vehicles in standing water before firefighters could guide drivers to safety. Additional flooding was reported under the Union Pacific tracks near Willow Street and the 103 Freeway, though no serious injuries were reported. Regionwide, the same system brought strong winds, toppled trees and prompted short-term flood advisories that included Long Beach as a risk area.

Police highlight serious overnight incidents in latest blotter

The Long Beach Police Department’s latest blotter puts the fatal airport-area collision at the top of its recap, underscoring the severity of the incident and the ongoing work by collision investigators. The department notes that details remain preliminary while detectives interview witnesses, review video and await further forensic analysis. Officials are urging anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam footage from Lakewood Boulevard around the time of the collision to come forward as they work to determine exactly what led up to the crash.

Staying safe on the roads

With more unstable weather possible in the days ahead, local officials are again reminding drivers to slow down on wet roads, avoid flooded underpasses and leave extra space in heavy rain. Recent flooding and the tragic tunnel crash have put a spotlight on how quickly conditions can turn dangerous, especially overnight and in low-visibility areas around freeways and airport corridors.