Faridun Abduvakhobov, 41, Mourned After Tragic Multi-Vehicle Collision on 10 Freeway in Claremont
CLAREMONT, CA — A devastating crash on the San Bernardino (10) Freeway in Claremont has resulted in the heartbreaking loss of 41-year-old Faridun Abduvakhobov, whose life was tragically taken in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 5, 2025. The fatal collision occurred around 5:10 a.m. and involved a disabled vehicle, a passing big rig, and additional vehicles traveling along the busy Southern California freeway.
As investigators continue working to understand the chain of events that led to the deadly crash, the community surrounding Faridun now mourns the sudden and painful loss of a man described by those close to him as compassionate, hardworking, and deeply devoted to his family. His tragic passing has renewed conversations about roadside safety, emergency response preparedness, and the risks faced by drivers whose vehicles become disabled on high-speed roadways like the I-10.
A Devastating Morning on the 10 Freeway
The incident unfolded in the pre-dawn stillness of Saturday morning, a time when traffic volume is typically low but speed remains high. According to preliminary information released by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred in the eastbound lanes of the 10 Freeway near Indian Hill Boulevard.
Authorities say a vehicle had become disabled in a lane of travel, possibly due to a mechanical malfunction or flat tire. While the details are still under review, what is clear is that this vehicle remained stationary in the path of oncoming traffic. Around 5:10 a.m., a big rig traveling eastbound collided with the stalled vehicle. The impact triggered a multi-vehicle chain reaction, involving several other cars that were unable to avoid the wreckage.
Faridun Abduvakhobov, who was reportedly inside or near one of the affected vehicles at the time of the crash, suffered critical injuries. Emergency medical personnel arrived promptly and rendered aid at the scene, but his injuries were too severe. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by first responders.
Other drivers involved in the collision sustained varying degrees of injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. As of now, none of their conditions have been reported as life-threatening.
Remembering Faridun Abduvakhobov
For those who knew Faridun, the sudden loss has left a hole in their hearts and a profound silence in the spaces he once filled. At 41 years old, he was a man of dignity, perseverance, and quiet strength. A devoted father, loving husband, and loyal friend, Faridun’s life was built on the values of hard work, family commitment, and community support.
Coworkers and friends describe him as someone who always showed up — for his job, for his loved ones, and for anyone in need. He worked diligently, often taking on extra shifts or responsibilities without complaint. His reliability was matched only by his kindness, always offering a helping hand or a warm word to those around him.
“He was the backbone of his family,” one close friend shared. “Everything he did was to build a better life for his kids. He was full of hope, even in tough times.”
Faridun’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media and in community spaces. Friends, colleagues, and extended family members have shared memories, photographs, and messages of love and sorrow, all echoing the same sentiment: his presence was powerful, and his absence is devastating.
The Danger of Disabled Vehicles on Highways
This incident highlights one of the most dangerous and overlooked threats to driver safety on America’s highways — stalled or disabled vehicles that remain on or near active lanes of travel.
According to federal transportation statistics, collisions involving stopped or disabled vehicles result in thousands of serious injuries and fatalities every year. Despite increased awareness campaigns, many drivers are unaware of the immense risk posed by vehicles stranded on busy interstates, especially when visibility is low or traffic is moving at high speeds.
Experts say the early morning timing of the Claremont crash — around 5:10 a.m., just before sunrise — may have been a contributing factor. Darkness, fatigue among early drivers, and the sudden appearance of a non-moving vehicle in a travel lane can lead to tragic outcomes in mere seconds.
“Stopping on a freeway, especially without adequate lighting or warning, is one of the most dangerous situations a driver can face,” said a traffic safety analyst. “And it’s not always avoidable. Mechanical failures, flat tires, or sudden engine shutdowns can leave drivers stranded in places where they are extremely vulnerable.”
The collision has now spurred public conversations about the need for safer roadside response systems, better driver education, and quicker emergency response infrastructure for stalled vehicles — particularly on high-speed urban freeways like the 10.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash. Officers are carefully reviewing evidence at the scene, including skid marks, vehicle positions, dashcam footage, and witness statements. The big rig driver, who remained on the scene and cooperated with authorities, has not been cited or charged at this time. Officials are also examining whether reflective signage, vehicle hazard lights, or other warnings were visible on the disabled car before impact.
An autopsy will be conducted, and standard toxicology testing is underway for all drivers involved — a routine step in fatal traffic incidents. Investigators have not ruled out fatigue, distraction, or visibility as contributing factors, and a full report is expected in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, the freeway was shut down for several hours on Saturday morning to allow crews to clear the wreckage and gather evidence. Eastbound lanes were fully reopened by mid-morning, but the scene left a lasting impression on drivers passing through.
Community Support and Grief
In the aftermath of the tragedy, support has been pouring in for Faridun’s family. Friends have organized memorial funds to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for his children, who now face life without their father. Local community centers, faith leaders, and advocacy groups have rallied to provide counseling and outreach to those affected.
One organizer of a memorial campaign wrote, “We cannot undo the pain of this loss, but we can come together in love and support for the family Faridun cherished so deeply. He gave so much in life — it’s now our turn to give back in his memory.”
Candlelight vigils are being planned in the coming days to honor his life and provide a space for mourning, reflection, and unity. Many of those planning to attend have never met Faridun personally — but the impact of the tragedy has moved people across Southern California and beyond.
A Call for Greater Freeway Safety
As people grieve, they are also calling for change. Advocates are urging state and local leaders to invest in improved roadside safety measures, including:
- Emergency alert systems to warn oncoming drivers of stalled vehicles
- Reflective hazard markers or roadside flares made available in vehicles
- More frequent highway patrol monitoring during low-traffic hours
- Infrastructure upgrades like wider shoulders and protective barriers
Some are also pressing tech companies to develop automated alerts in GPS apps that warn drivers of stationary hazards ahead in real time.
“This isn’t just about one crash,” said one advocate. “It’s about making sure this never happens again. We can’t bring him back, but we can fight to prevent another family from enduring this same pain.”
Honoring a Legacy
While the investigation will continue and debates about highway safety move forward, one truth remains constant: a man’s life was lost far too soon, and his absence has left an unfillable void. But even in grief, those who knew Faridun Abduvakhobov are choosing to focus not on the tragedy of his death, but on the richness of his life.
He will be remembered for the quiet strength he showed, for the unconditional love he gave to his family, and for the countless small acts of kindness that defined his character. He wasn’t famous, he didn’t seek attention — but in the eyes of those who loved him, he was everything.
Final Reflections
The tragic crash that claimed the life of Faridun Abduvakhobov on the 10 Freeway in Claremont is a painful reminder of how quickly life can change. It is also a call to action — for better safety, faster response, and greater public awareness.
But above all, it is a story of love, community, and a life that mattered.
As the sun rises again over Southern California freeways, may it do so with renewed purpose, in memory of a man who should still be here — and in the hope that his story will lead to lives saved, families protected, and futures preserved.
