Chaos in Hollywood: Driver Ramps into Nightclub Crowd, Leaving 7 Critically Injured and Over 20 Hurt

A chaotic scene unfolded early Saturday morning in East Hollywood when a man, ejected from a nightclub, drove his car into a crowd, injuring 30 people. The gray Nissan Versa struck a valet stand and taco stand outside The Vermont nightclub, sending people flying through the air.

Witnesses reported that the driver, who appeared intoxicated, had been removed from the club before the incident. After leaving, he made a U-turn onto the sidewalk and plowed into the crowd around 2 a.m.

Adam VanGerpen, a spokesperson for the L.A. City Fire Department, described the aftermath as chaotic: “People were just waiting in line, getting some tacos and going into the club.”

Emergency responders quickly set up triage tents for the injured. Among the victims, seven were reported critically hurt. Many were taken to the hospital, and about 124 firefighters and paramedics responded to the situation.

When police arrived, they found that bystanders had pulled the driver from his vehicle after he was injured. He had sustained a gunshot wound from a suspect who fled the scene on foot. The suspect was described as a Latino male, around 5 feet 9 inches, weighing 180 pounds, wearing a blue jersey, and possibly armed with a silver revolver.

This incident is not isolated. Alcohol-related crashes have been a growing concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021, nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities involved alcohol. This statistic highlights the ongoing need for preventive measures, especially around nightlife areas.

Neighbors and witnesses expressed shock at the events. Jennifer Garcia, a local vendor who arrived shortly after the crash, noted the unusual scene. “I usually set up right in front of the club, but this time, all I saw were fire trucks and chaos.”

By the morning, the area returned to its routine, with the flea market setting up nearby. However, remnants of the crash—like a lone woman’s shoe and an overturned e-bike—served as reminders of the night’s tragedy.

Mayor Karen Bass addressed the situation, expressing gratitude for the first responders who helped save lives, saying, “This is a heartbreaking tragedy.”

As authorities continue to investigate, the community remains shaken, reflecting on the impact of such incidents fueled by reckless behavior. The need for awareness around safety and responsible drinking is more pressing than ever.



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