2 Killed In Fiery Head-On Collision In Santa Clarita

SANTA CLARITA (CBSLA.com) – Two drivers were killed in a violent and fiery head-on collision early Tuesday morning in Santa Clarita that was caused when by one of the victims speeding in and out of traffic, authorities say.

The crash was reported at 12:26 a.m. near the intersection of Decoro Drive and McBean Parkway, said Lt. Chuck Becerra of the Sheriff's Santa Clarita Valley Station.

One of the drivers, believed to be traveling in a BMW, was speeding in and out of traffic when he clipped another car, causing him to lose control and veer into oncoming traffic, Becerra said.

The driver of the BMW collided into a Honda. The impact of the crash caused the driver of the Honda to be ejected and the BMW to catch fire with the driver inside, Becerra said.

The driver of the BMW has been identified as 34-year-old Joel Godfrey.

Both drivers died at the scene.

The driver of the Honda just graduated from high school, according to Becerra.

Friends identified him as Collin Gore, 18.

The friends told KCAL 9's Cristy Fajardo was the larger-than-life friend they all knew was destined for great things.

A former coach said, "He was a great kid. An outstanding kid."

Friend Adriana Aguirre added, "He always made everyone laugh. There was never a dull moment with him. He was great."

They took the death particularly hard.

They said Gore was friends to all, a jokester, worked at Six Flags, an honors student and a member of the swim team.

Friends and family held an emotional vigil for Gore Tuesday evening at Hart High School.

His mother told KCAL 9's Andrea Fujii that her son could light up a room.

"Collin was everybody's friend," said Daleen Bueter, his mom, "he was happy from the moment he woke up every morning until he went to bed."

Gore was killed about a mile from his home.

His mom said she takes comfort in knowing how loved and popular and respected her son was.

"I'll never be the same," she said, "but I'll be okay."

"He was a very vibrant soul," said friend Nathan Bradder, "he was always talking to everyone."

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