Traffic fatality 
On April 20, 2022, the Simi Valley Police Department responded to a single vehicle traffic collision near the intersection of Wood Ranch Parkway and Long Canyon Rd. The vehicle had left the roadway and collided with a tree. The driver, an 87-year-old female, was conscious and alert at the time of the accident. Based on statements made by the driver, she became distracted when her purse fell over in the passenger seat. As she attempted to upright the purse, she drifted off the road and collided with a tree.
Sadly, on April 26, 2022, the driver involved in the above-described accident succumbed to her injuries. The collision investigation is ongoing. The driver’s identity is not being shared out of respect for the family.
Ironically, the Office of Traffic Safety designates April as Distracted Driver Awareness month. This is an extremely sad reminder that distracted driving is not only dangerous but also deadly. The Simi Valley Police Department reminds everyone to keep their eyes on the road and no matter what the distraction is, it can wait until you pull over and stop.
**UPDATE**
After confirmation of contact with next of kin, the deceased has been identified as Gerry Kuykendall 87 years of Simi Valley.
Address/Location
Simi Valley Police Department
3901 Alamo St
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-583-6950
