Overview

• The collision occurred around 2:43 p.m. on Memorial Day when the learner’s vehicle left a Gelson’s Market parking lot, broke through a fence and tumbled down a 40-foot embankment to Coast Highway.
• James Politoski, 64, was identified by local authorities as the father and sole passenger who died at the scene.
• Medical staff report the teenage driver sustained serious injuries but is expected to recover in stable condition.
• Laguna Beach Police Department spokesperson Lt. Jesse Schmidt has cited possible gas-brake pedal confusion as a factor under investigation.
• The crash has prompted calls for safer conditions for driving lessons in public parking areas and drawn condolences from community leaders.