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PLAYA DEL REY (CNS) - Two teens who were killed in a head-on, two- vehicle collision in Playa del Rey that also left two others in critical condition were identified Thursday as a pair of brothers, one of whom had been scheduled to graduate Thursday from Morningside High School in Inglewood.
The teens were identified by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner as David Ceja, 17, and Hector Ceja Jr., 15.
Firefighters were sent to the 8800 block of Vista Del Mar, near Dockweiler State Beach, around 7:55 p.m. Tuesday to investigate a collision involving five people, according to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Nicholas Prange.
When they arrived at the scene, fire crews discovered two people were trapped inside vehicles and worked to free them. One victim who was trapped was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people were taken to a hospital in critical condition, but one later died, Fox 11 reported.
A fourth victim was taken to a hospital and was listed in fair condition, Prange said.
The surviving victims were identified as two women, ages 18 and 30, along with an 18-year-old man, Prange said.
During graduation ceremonies Thursday at Morningside High School, David Ceja's family walked onto the stage to accept his diploma. His graduation cap and gown were also on display, and the students held a moment of silence in his memory.
Hector Ceja is also a student at the school.
Fox11 reported that a driver involved in the crash may have taken a hit of laughing gas prior to the crash. According to the station, a nitrous oxide tank was found near the wreckage.