Car hits crowd outside Los Angeles nightclub, leaving 30 injured, with 7 in critical condition.
In a tragic incident early Saturday morning, a vehicle collision left thirty individuals injured, seven of whom are in critical condition, as a car surged into a crowd of attendees waiting to enter a nightclub in Los Angeles. The accident occurred around 2 a.m. outside The Vermont Hollywood, a popular multipurpose venue located at the intersection of North Vermont Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood, according to reports from the Los Angeles City Fire Department.
The vehicle involved, identified as a Nissan Versa, reportedly barreled into a gathering that consisted primarily of women. In addition to the crowd, the car also made contact with a taco truck and a valet stand nearby, further complicating the chaotic scene. Over 120 personnel from the fire department were dispatched to respond to the incident, where first responders encountered numerous victims lying unresponsive on the ground.
Of the thirty individuals injured, officials confirmed that twenty-three were transported to nearby hospitals and trauma centers for treatment. Among these, seven patients are reported to be in critical condition, six suffered serious injuries, and ten are in fair condition. Furthermore, seven other individuals declined to seek medical assistance but were evaluated at the scene.
In a disturbing twist following the collision, the driver of the Nissan was reportedly shot by a bystander amid the ensuing chaos. Local law enforcement confirmed that the driver sustained injuries and was taken to a hospital where surgical intervention was performed. The motivations behind the initial crash remain unclear, with several questions surrounding the circumstances leading up to the incident.
A witness residing close to the nightclub indicated that she heard gunshots before the car struck the crowd, followed by additional shots afterward. However, the Los Angeles Police Department has yet to corroborate these claims regarding gunfire preceding the crash. The LAPD’s Central Traffic Division is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident. As authorities continue their inquiries, they have emphasized that this investigation will be extensive and thorough.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with large gatherings and the pressing need for thorough safety measures in public spaces. Further updates are expected from police officials as the situation develops.
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