L.A. County D.A. investigator and his wife killed in Downey car crash

An investigator with the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office and his wife, an elementary school teacher, were killed in a car crash in Downey on Sunday, according to authorities.

Emilio Guerrero, 52, a sergeant with the L.A. County district attorney’s office bureau of investigation, and his wife, Annabel Guerrero, 47, a teacher who had worked for the Downey Unified School District, died at the scene, according to authorities. Both were Downey residents.

Annabel Guerrero worked as a first-grade teacher at Patrick Henry Elementary School in the Long Beach Unified School District, according to district spokesperson Evelyn Somoza.

“We’re deeply saddened by this tragedy and send our heartfelt condolences to the family and their loved ones. We’re offering counseling to students who need support,” said Somoza in a statement.

Emilio Guerrero was driving when a 60-year-old driver from South Gate crashed into his vehicle at Paramount Boulevard and Gardendale Street shortly after 2 p.m., the Downey Police Department said in a news release.

In a statement, Dist. Atty. George Gascón said the couple’s death “has left our hearts heavy and filled with grief.”

“The loss of Sergeant Guerrero and his wife Annabel is deeply felt by our entire organization,” Gascón said. “Our hearts break for the three children and family members left behind. We offer our sincerest condolences to their family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. We are keeping their loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. May Sergeant Emilio Guerrero and his wife Annabel rest in peace.”

The unidentified driver was transported to a hospital in critical condition, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find one vehicle overturned, and all three people trapped in their vehicles, according to authorities. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Anyone with information can contact the Downey Police Department at (562) 904-2308 or Investigator Alaina Clark at (562) 904-2339. Anonymous tips can be made to “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).