A car drove into a large crowd early on Saturday morning (local time) on Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood, Los Angeles, injuring at least 30 people and leaving three in critical condition.
The tragic incident occurred around 2:00 AM local time (9:00 UTC), striking multiple individuals waiting to enter a nightclub. People outside a nearby taco truck and a valet stand were also hit by the vehicle.
How the vehicle crashed into the crowd in Los Angeles
Shortly after the incident, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) confirmed the significant number of casualties, with 23 people transported to various local hospitals and health centers. The remaining seven people affected by the crash declined transport after being assessed at the scene. Among the injured, local authorities treated one individual, who was found to have a gunshot wound; however, authorities have not yet confirmed if this injury is directly related to the vehicle incident.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and panic as the vehicle, which was reportedly a Nissan Versa, drove uncontrollably onto the pavement, hitting multiple people waiting to enter a popular nightclub in the area. The car also collided with a taco truck and a valet podium before eventually coming to a stop. Bystanders then rushed to help the injured before emergency services arrived at the scene.
Captain Adam Van Gerpen, who is a public information officer for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), told local media that a large investigation is underway, led by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The cause of the incident remains unclear, as the investigation is still ongoing. It is currently unclear whether the act was intentional, terror-related, or if it was an accident. The driver of the vehicle reportedly remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
The area around Santa Monica Boulevard, known for its vibrant nightlife, was particularly busy at the time of the incident, which contributed to the high number of casualties. Authorities are urging anyone with information, CCTV, or phone footage of the tragic event to contact the LAPD as the investigation continues. In the wake of the tragedy, members of the East Hollywood community have responded swiftly to authorities’ calls by donating blood. Fundraising efforts are also underway to support those affected.
The incident reminded people of the New Year’s Eve event on Bourbon Street in New Orleans earlier this year, during which a vehicle drove into pedestrians celebrating, resulting in 15 deaths and 35 injuries. The perpetrator, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed by police at the scene. After driving a pickup truck into the crowd, Jabbar exited the vehicle and engaged in a shootout with law enforcement officers. He was fatally shot during this exchange, having also wounded two officers. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism, and an ISIS flag was reportedly found in his vehicle.
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