A mother and her children, ages 4 and 8, died when an SUV going the wrong way in traffic crashed into the woman's minivan and sent it careening into a light pole in Hollywood this morning, authorities said.

Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Erik Scott stated that the tragic collision was reported about 7:23 a.m. near 860 N. Highland Ave., which is where the street crosses Willoughby Avenue.

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A gray Infinity SUV headed north on Highland crossed into southbound lanes and collided with the mom's blue Dodge Caravan, sending the minivan into a light post, LAPD Officer Bruce Borihahn told the Weekly.

The LAFD's Scott stated that “extrication” was “required” for some of the victims.

One of the children was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Borihahn and the LAFD. The mother and the other child were taken to a hospital, where they were declared dead, Borihahn said.

The driver of the Infinity was taken to a hospital to be treated for injuries and was in unknown condition, he said.

Highland was closed between Melrose and Santa Monica boulevards late this morning as investigators combed the scene. There's no immediate word on why the Infinity driver allegedly crossed into oncoming traffic.

“It's a tragic accident,” Borihahn said.

[@dennisjromero / djromero@laweekly.com / @LAWeeklyNews]

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