Tragic Accident Claims Father's Life During Driving Lesson with Teenage Daughter
Laguna Beach police investigate tragic crash during father-daughter driving lesson that leaves man dead and teen injured.
A tragic accident in Laguna Beach, California, claimed the life of a 64-year-old man who was teaching his teenage daughter to drive, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. According to the Laguna Beach Police Department (LBPD), the incident occurred late Monday afternoon along Coast Highway, a busy thoroughfare in the area.
The deceased has been identified as James Politoski. Police say he was the only passenger in the vehicle at the time of the crash, while his 15-year-old daughter—who holds a learner’s permit—was behind the wheel. The teenager sustained significant injuries in the accident but is expected to survive.
Preliminary reports indicate that the vehicle veered off the road, broke through a fence barrier, then rolled down an embankment before coming to a stop upside down on the highway. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene and transported both occupants to a local hospital. Politoski succumbed to his injuries despite efforts to save him.
"This is a heartbreaking situation that not only impacts the immediate families involved but also deeply affects our entire community," stated Lieutenant Jesse Schmidt of the LBPD. "It is always difficult when an accident leads to the loss of life—especially under circumstances where a parent was simply trying to do the right thing by teaching their child a valuable life skill." The department extended its condolences to Politoski's family and friends during this difficult time.
Local officials have not released the name of the teenage driver, citing her age and privacy protections for minors. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances leading up to the crash, and no further details about possible factors such as speed, road conditions, or mechanical failure have been disclosed.
The community is mourning the loss and grappling with the reminder of the risks associated with driving, especially for young and inexperienced motorists. As the investigation unfolds, authorities urge families to exercise caution during driving lessons and to remain vigilant on the roads.
