A man has been arrested after a vehicle he was driving slammed into a crowd on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, California, on Saturday, July 19, injuring at least 30 people. The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. local time, just after club-goers had been exiting a nightclub in the area.
The Incident and Arrest
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) identified the driver as Fernando Ramirez, 29, who was immediately surrounded by a group of bystanders after the crash. LAPD Cmdr. Lillian Carranza stated that a person from the crowd reportedly shot Ramirez. He was taken to the hospital, where he is undergoing surgery but is in stable condition.
Ramirez has been arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. The authorities are also considering charging him with attempted murder. The decision on formal charges will be made by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.
Victims and Conditions
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), there were 30 victims in total. Of those, seven are in critical condition, six are in serious condition, and ten are in fair condition. Several others chose to leave the scene without being transported to the hospital.
The LAPD confirmed that the driver was assaulted by bystanders and sustained a gunshot wound during the incident. Authorities are still investigating the shooting of Ramirez and searching for the person who fired the shot. That individual fled the scene on foot and is believed to be armed with a silver revolver.
Details of the Crash
The crash took place near the Vermont Hollywood nightclub on Santa Monica Boulevard, just after the club security escorted an individual out of the venue. A taco cart and a valet line were located near the crowd when the vehicle sped into them, causing chaos. LAFD Capt. Adam Van Gerpen stated that the crash knocked over the valet podium and the taco cart, and many people were hit by the vehicle.
Most of the victims struck by the car were female, according to reports from the Associated Press.
The Response
The Vermont Hollywood nightclub issued a statement expressing their sadness about the incident. They confirmed that the suspect was arrested immediately by the LAPD, and the investigation is ongoing. The club praised the swift response from first responders, thanking them for their quick action in assisting the injured.
This horrific event has shocked the community, leaving many injured and raising questions about safety in such public areas. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash, the shooting, and the individual responsible for both the crash and the gunfire. The LAPD has promised to keep the public informed as more details emerge.
