James Politoski dies in fatal Laguna Beach car crash

James Politoski dies in fatal Laguna Beach car crash

Fatal Laguna Beach car crash death of James Politoski – Obituary

James Politoski, 64, of Laguna Beach, lost his life Monday afternoon during a tragic driving lesson accident involving his teenage daughter. According to officials, the incident happened just before 4:15 p.m. in the upper parking area of the former Gelson’s Market located at 24 Monarch Bay Plaza.

Politoski was seated in the passenger seat while his 15-year-old daughter, who held a learner’s permit, was driving. During the lesson, the vehicle reportedly crashed through a fence and tumbled roughly 40 feet down an embankment, finally coming to rest upside down on the sidewalk along Coast Highway.

Emergency crews responded quickly and transported the teenage driver to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo with serious injuries. She remains hospitalized and is expected to recover.

Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.