Driver faces 37 counts of attempted murder following crash at Los Angeles nightclub.
Fernando Ramirez, a 29-year-old man, faces an extensive array of legal troubles following an incident in which he allegedly drove his vehicle into a crowd outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub in Los Angeles, resulting in multiple injuries. On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office announced that Ramirez was charged with 74 felonies, including 37 counts of attempted murder and an additional 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
The harrowing event occurred early on Saturday morning when Ramirez reportedly drove his Nissan Versa into a group of patrons waiting outside the nightclub around 2 a.m. His vehicle not only struck numerous individuals but also collided with a nearby taco truck and a valet stand. The chaos did not end there; witnesses to the event intervened, leading to an altercation in which Ramirez was physically pulled from his car and subsequently beaten. During this confrontation, he sustained gunshot wounds, which required hospitalization. Fortunately, his injuries were reported as non-life-threatening, although specifics regarding his current health status have yet to be disclosed.
In the aftermath of the incident, authorities revealed that a total of 37 people were injured. Of these, seven individuals were hospitalized in critical condition, while six suffered serious injuries, and ten were listed as being in fair condition. By Sunday evening, medical reports indicated that only one person remained critically but stable in the hospital, with all other victims expected to survive their injuries.
Prior to the crash, Ramirez reportedly exhibited erratic behavior, having been ejected from the nightclub due to his intoxication and involvement in a fight. After being removed for a second time from the venue, he allegedly returned to his vehicle and drove into the crowd.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell remarked on the impact of the incident, describing it as transforming a vibrant nightlife area into a scene filled with trauma and fear. The investigation into the events is still unfolding, particularly concerning the individual who shot Ramirez during the chaotic aftermath. The alleged shooter, described only as a man wearing a blue jersey and armed with a silver revolver, fled the location.
Given Ramirez’s extensive criminal history, which includes previous convictions for assault, battery, and domestic violence, he faces the prospect of multiple life sentences if convicted of the current charges. At the time of the incident, he was out on bail related to a separate domestic violence case from Orange County. The gravity of his actions has raised concerns regarding public safety and the implications of repeat offenders within the judicial system.
As the case develops, Ramirez is being held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday, with the judicial process likely to be closely followed by both the media and community members alike.
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