JUST IN: Car Plows Into Crowd in Los Angeles, Over 20 Injured

A disturbing event unfolded in the early hours of Saturday morning in East Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, when a vehicle deliberately or accidentally drove into a large group of people, resulting in more than 20 injuries.

According to a statement released by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), multiple emergency response teams were swiftly mobilized to the scene along Santa Monica Boulevard.

It became the focal point of urgent rescue and triage operations.

The incident took place at approximately 2:00 am local time, correlating with 09:00 GMT.

Initial reports from LAFD officials confirmed the gravity of the incident, stating that five individuals were in critical condition as of the latest updates.

Between eight and ten other people suffered serious injuries requiring immediate medical attention, while an additional 10 to 15 victims sustained injuries deemed as fair or minor.

The scale and suddenness of the event prompted a rapid deployment of ambulances, paramedic teams, and fire trucks to manage the chaotic aftermath.

Details about the moments leading up to the crash have yet to be fully clarified by authorities.

Witnesses on scene described a chaotic atmosphere, with people frantically seeking cover and shouting for help in the moments following the impact.

Eyewitness accounts collected by local media suggest that the vehicle, whose make and model have yet to be disclosed, mounted the curb and struck the crowd with little or no warning.

The reason for this tragic occurrence, whether accidental, due to impairment, or intentional, remains under active investigation by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detectives.

LAPD dietectives are reportedly working in collaboration with federal assistance, given the magnitude of injuries involved.

The area of East Hollywood, a bustling district known for its dense nightlife and diverse community gatherings, was particularly busy at the time.

Santa Monica Boulevard, which runs through the heart of this neighborhood, often sees both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, especially during weekends.

The time and location of the incident, therefore, likely contributed to the large number of casualties.

First responders worked tirelessly to stabilize victims at the scene before transporting them to nearby hospitals.

Local hospitals, including Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai, activated emergency protocols to cope with the sudden surge of patients.

The identities of those involved have been withheld pending notification of families.

On the other hand, local authorities have reassured the community that all possible resources are being directed to ensure proper medical care and support for victims and their loved ones.

Mayor Karen Bass addressed the public Saturday morning, expressing deep sorrow over the event and committing to a thorough investigation.

“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families affected by this senseless tragedy,” said Mayor Bass.

“We are working closely with law enforcement and emergency services to piece together the circumstances and to support everyone touched by this event.”

The incident has inevitably reignited ongoing community discussions surrounding pedestrian safety, traffic enforcement, and the need for improved protective measures along Los Angeles’ busiest streets.

Some residents and local business owners expressed frustration.

They noted that Santa Monica Boulevard has seen prior near-misses and called for increased physical barriers to better safeguard pedestrians, particularly during peak times.

As investigators comb through available CCTV footage and interview bystanders, the community is rallying in support of the victims.

Blood donation centers have reported an uptick in volunteers, and local organizations are organizing fundraisers to help cover medical expenses for those most severely affected.

At this point, the motive for the driver’s actions and whether any criminal charges will be filed remain to be announced.

The authorities have requested anyone with additional information or cell phone footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.

According to them, these resources could be vital to understanding the full scope of what transpired.

In summary, the East Hollywood vehicle incident has cast a somber pall over Los Angeles.

It serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of crowded public spaces and the critical importance of vigilance and preparedness.

As the city awaits further answers, efforts remain focused on recovery, justice, and prevention of future tragedies.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook