A vehicle barreled into a nightclub line early Saturday in East Hollywood following gunfire, injuring dozens and prompting an expanded LAPD investigation.
At a Glance
- Just before 2 a.m. on July 19, a Nissan Versa drove onto the sidewalk outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub on Santa Monica Boulevard, striking a taco truck, valet stand, and crowd.
- At least 30 people were injured: seven critical, six serious, and ten fair, with additional victims treated and released on‑site.
- Gunfire was involved: one crowd member and the driver suffered gunshot wounds; it remains unclear when the shots were fired.
- Witnesses report hearing a fight and multiple gunshots involving up to 15 people before the crash.
- Emergency personnel responded in force: 124 LAFD members attended, and LAPD has cordoned the area for forensic and criminal investigation.
Chaos at Dawn
Club patrons expecting a reggaeton/hip‑hop event were caught in catastrophe when around 2 a.m., a vehicle leapt the curb, crushing a taco truck and valet booth, then plowing into the waiting crowd. Victims were rushed to hospitals, though many refused transport after on‑site treatment by paramedics.
Watch a report: At least 30 injured when car hits crowd outside Los Angeles club, fire department says – Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/least-30-injured-when-car-hits-crowd-outside-los-angeles-club-fire-department-2025-07-19/
Eyewitness accounts describe gunshots both before and after the crash. The driver, shot and pulled from the wreckage by bystanders, became the target of a crowd attack. Authorities have not clarified if the vehicle’s plunge was intentional, the result of medical distress, or mechanical failure.
Investigation and Aftermath
LAPD has blocked off Santa Monica Boulevard at Vermont Avenue and initiated a thorough probe, analyzing surveillance video, forensic evidence, ballistics, and dozens of witness statements. Investigators are working to piece together motive, sequence of events, and to locate the alleged gunman—described as a bald Hispanic male in a blue jersey, possibly wielding a silver revolver.
Mayor Karen Bass termed the incident “a heartbreaking tragedy” and urged any witnesses to assist police. No arrests have been made. The city has deployed social services to assist victims and families and remains on alert as the investigation unfolds.