Los Angeles, CAย โ Nine people were injured Sunday afternoon when a van drove off the road and into a group of pedestrians in the heart of Los Angelesโ Fashion District. The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. near the intersection of Maple Avenue and 12th Street, right by the bustling entrance to Santee Alley.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the van ended up on the sidewalk after veering off the roadway. Video from the scene shows the vehicle crashed outside Santee Alley, surrounded by dislodged K-rails and debris from a partially collapsed patio structure that had fallen onto the van during the impact. Whether the building sustained any structural damage has not yet been confirmed.
The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that seven victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Among them were three boys aged 8, 11, and 17, and three women aged 30, 54, and 65. All were reported to be in fair condition. Two additional victims, both 23-year-old women, declined further care and were released against medical advice.
LAPD investigators stated there is no indication the crash was intentional. Drugs and alcohol are not considered contributing factors at this time. The incident remains under active investigation. The cityโs Department of Transportation was contacted to assist with traffic control in the area, which experienced temporary delays due to the emergency response.
This serious pedestrian crash near Santee Alleyโa popular retail zone in downtown Los Angelesโserves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety in high-traffic areas. Authorities continue to gather details and urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact local law enforcement.
