Two people lost their lives on Monday when their vintage Ford collided with a tree in Temple City, California. Photos from losangles.cbslocal.com

Two people lost their lives when the 1931 Ford they were riding in collided with a tree in Temple City, California. Upon impact the ’31 Ford caught fire with Florean Frank Izbinski and his wife Christina Izbinski still inside. The front mounted gas tank may have contributed to cause of the fire as the car plowed head first into the large tree.

According to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, the couple had left a local Denny’s before the crash. Just before 7PM, the local sheriff’s department received a phone call alerting them to the crash and subsequent fire. When emergency responders arrived at the scene of the crash, the ’31 was fully engulfed in flames with the Izbinski’s still inside the vehicle.

Mr. Izbinski and his wife were members of the Santa Anita A’s club (a Model A car club) and had recently attended a local meeting. Upon hearing the news of the crash, Bonnie Nelson, another cub member, was saddened to hear of the couple’s passing. Nelson recalled the beautiful condition of the Izbinski’s black ’31 Ford.

CBS Los Angeles

Nelson was concerned about the cause of the crash because of the impact it might have on other members. Classic cars lack many of the modern safety features, such as seat belts or side impact air bags. Although the addition of seat belts may detract from a period correct restoration, they do save lives.

It is up to the owner to add in seat belts and other safety items like windshield wipers, but when your life or the life of a loved on is at stake the cluttered appearance and or diminished value seems well worth it.