A minivan crashed into a crowd in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, injuring nine people, including three children. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. in Santee Alley, a busy open-air market located in the Fashion District.
Emergency officials indicated that seven of the injured were taken to the hospital, where they were listed in fair condition. Two individuals chose to leave the hospital against medical advice. The exact number of people inside the van at the time of the crash is unclear, and it is not known if the driver sustained any injuries.
The crash took place in the 300 block of East 12th Street, an area known for its bustling atmosphere and foot traffic. Witnesses reported that the minivan appeared to have struck several concrete barriers before coming to a stop. Photos from the scene showed the vehicle on the sidewalk, with a yellow and red awning partially collapsed nearby.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation. City Department of Transportation workers were on-site to manage traffic and secure the area. Videos shared on social media captured the aftermath, with police cordoning off the area with yellow tape.
As the investigation continues, community members are left shaken by the incident, highlighting concerns about safety in crowded public spaces.