Santa Clarita Valley deputies warned against illegal street racing, after a fatal crash in the San Fernando Valley reportedly was sparked by a street racing incident.

Two men were charged with murder after the alleged March 3 incident.

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials confirmed an unrelated four-car crash in the Santa Clarita Valley hours before the fatal collision in Chatsworth.

That crash also is believed to have been associated with a street racing crash, as dozens of cars were reported by deputies on scene around midnight in a Valencia industrial Park, near Avenue Crockett and Rye Canyon Road.

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station wanted to raise awareness of the perils of street racing and encourage Santa Clarita Valley residents to report such activity before a tragedy occurs, officials said this week.

Each year as spring and summer time approaches, deputies assigned to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station see an increase of sideshow or street racing activities. In fact, these type of activities can be found in communities across Southern California.

Street racing events continually draw in participants who create a public safety hazard through their unsafe driving and obstruction of public roadways.

As a result of their aggressive behavior, other crimes such as assault with a deadly weapon, DUI, and general disturbances of the peace frequently occur.

Illegal sideshows and street racing events are reckless, unsafe and unlawful.  They pose an extreme danger to those participating in the activity, other motorists and bystanders.  People involved in these activities within the Santa Clarita Valley should expect deputies to take decisive action against them, including citations with enhanced fines, vehicle impounds and jail time for felony and misdemeanor charges.

Not only is street racing illegal to participate in, but spectating is also illegal.  Spectators can receive a citation for watching the street race.

Deputies assigned to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station will continue to monitor illegal street racing and take appropriate action when they come into our patrol area.  Street racing cannot be tolerated in any form.

If any member of the public is aware of street racing activity in progress, call 911 and provide license plate numbers, descriptions of vehicles and subjects involved.  Should you see any suspicious activity, please call Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at (661) 255-1121.