Final Wrightwood crash victim identified as Cole Torres, 19

Key points

• Cole Torres, 19, was identified as the final fatality in the September 4 crash on Highway 2 near Wrightwood.
• The crash killed four people: Torres, Rebekah Cabral-Gonzalez (21), Jason Potter (19), and Nevaeh Harper (20).
• Two other occupants were hospitalized in critical condition at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
• The California Highway Patrol stated that none of the six passengers were wearing seatbelts and that alcohol was a contributing factor.
• GoFundMe campaigns were established for each victim's family, with specific details about their lives shared by organizers.

Background

This incident follows earlier reports from our archive on September 6 and 8, which confirmed the initial details of the crash, including the number of fatalities, the lack of seatbelt usage, and the suspected role of alcohol. The current update provides the identity of the fourth victim and details regarding community fundraising efforts.

How outlets are covering it

All three sources (California Post, ABC7 Los Angeles, and Victor Valley News Group) agree on the core facts: the date, location, vehicle type, number of fatalities, and the CHP's findings regarding seatbelts and alcohol. The California Post and ABC7 emphasize the personal tragedy, specifically noting that Cole Torres had recently learned he was going to be an uncle. The Victor Valley News Group provides the most detailed breakdown of the GoFundMe campaigns, offering specific descriptions of the victims' personalities and careers, such as Rebekah Cabral-Gonzalez's work in behavioral health and Jason Potter's snowboarding talent. While the outlets differ in the depth of personal tributes, they maintain a consistent factual narrative regarding the crash investigation.

Why it matters

The identification of the final victim closes a chapter in a local tragedy that has deeply affected the small community of Wrightwood. The ongoing investigation by the CHP and the community's response through fundraising highlight the severe impact of the crash on the families and the broader concern regarding seatbelt usage and impaired driving on mountain roads.

What to watch

The California Highway Patrol investigation into the crash remains ongoing. Families are currently relying on community support through GoFundMe campaigns to cover funeral expenses and other costs associated with the loss. Authorities have urged witnesses to contact the CHP's Antelope Valley Area office.