Chaos erupted at the Inglewood CarMax dealership on Saturday when a customer drove his SUV into the showroom, injuring multiple people. The driver, identified as 25-year-old Andrew Jesus Arroyo, reportedly became agitated after his vehicle was appraised. Witnesses described a scene of panic as the SUV reversed into the building, causing damage and sending customers and employees scrambling for safety.
The incident occurred in the afternoon, leaving eight people injured. Two of those injured were taken to trauma centers with serious injuries, and one person was reported to be paralyzed. Following the crash, Arroyo fled the scene but later turned himself in to the police.
Los Angeles County prosecutors have since charged Arroyo with serious offenses, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. These charges come with special allegations of causing great bodily injury to several victims, which could lead to a longer prison sentence if he is convicted.
According to reports, Arroyo had been upset about the appraisal of his vehicle, but CarMax officials stated that their employees did not perceive his behavior as related to the appraisal. They noted that Arroyo had even spent time looking at cars for potential purchase before his actions turned erratic.
A video from the dealership captured the moment of chaos, showing the SUV crashing into the showroom amid screams and the sound of breaking glass. Furniture was overturned, and the vehicle sped through the space before leaving the scene.
CarMax expressed its concern for the safety of its employees and customers, stating that they were saddened by the incident and were cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
Arroyo remains in custody without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on April 2. The community is left shaken by the violent outburst, raising questions about customer behavior and safety in public spaces.