In a shocking incident early Saturday morning, a vehicle rammed into a crowd of people waiting to enter a nightclub along a busy boulevard in Los Angeles, injuring 30 individuals. Bystanders quickly intervened, attacking the driver of the vehicle. According to officials from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the driver was later discovered to have sustained a gunshot wound, prompting an investigation into the actions of a suspected gunman who fled the scene.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains unclear whether the driver was shot before or after the crash, or the motive behind the vehicle’s sudden acceleration into the crowd. An LAPD spokesperson provided updates on the situation, confirming that 23 victims were transported to local hospitals and trauma centers. Among these victims, at least three were reported to be in critical condition following the incident along Santa Monica Boulevard in East Hollywood.
Fire Captain Adam Van Gerpen provided a detailed account of the scene, stating that a line of people, predominantly female, were waiting to enter the nightclub when they were struck by a Nissan Versa. The vehicle also collided with a taco truck and a valet stand. “They were all standing in line going into a nightclub. There was a taco cart out there, so they were getting some food, waiting to go in,” said Van Gerpen. He described the chaos as the valet podium was destroyed and numerous people were impacted by the vehicle.
Individuals inside the nightclub rushed outside to assist victims in the crucial moments before emergency crews arrived. The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found with a gunshot wound and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The latest updates on his condition remain unavailable.
Authorities are actively searching for the shooter, described as a man wearing a blue jersey and armed with a silver revolver. Van Gerpen indicated that this incident would lead to a comprehensive investigation by the LAPD, stressing the serious nature of the event.
The nightclub, known as Vermont Hollywood, was hosting a reggae and hip-hop event from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., according to its online schedule. A phone inquiry made to the club was not immediately addressed.
Maria Medrano, who was operating a food cart outside the venue, recounted the moments leading up to the crash. She noted that a fight had erupted outside the club shortly before the vehicle struck a group of people waiting nearby. Medrano and her husband, who were selling hot dogs, narrowly escaped injury when the car collided with their stand, ultimately becoming lodged there. “If not, I wouldn't be here to tell the story,” she remarked, expressing her relief after hearing what sounded like gunshots following the crash. “Everyone started running,” she added, highlighting the panic that ensued.
This disturbing event has raised concerns about safety in nightlife areas and the potential implications for event management in busy urban settings. As the investigation continues, the LAPD is urging anyone with information to come forward.
