Three people were pronounced dead and three others were taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition after an SUV crashed into a food stand in North Hollywood on Tuesday evening, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The crash occurred at around 5.55pm on November 10 near the intersection of Lankershim and Chandler boulevards, next to a Metro stop. Fire department crews responded to the scene, where three people were declared dead. Three others, including the driver, were rushed to a hospital.
Crash details and scene
The incident took place in the NoHo Arts District, a neighborhood known for independent theaters, dance studios, art galleries, live music venues, and popular restaurants and bars. According to KCAL-TV, the vehicle hit a food stand set up near a bus stop along Lankershim Boulevard. Aerial video showed a white SUV on the pavement beneath the stand's canopy.
The driver, a man in his 60s, was among those taken to hospital and was reported to be in serious condition, police told CBS. The cause of the crash is not yet known, but police do not believe a second vehicle was involved.
Investigation and response
The driver was evaluated by LAPD drug recognition experts to assess whether impairment may have been a factor, according to the report. Police also said they planned to review security video from the nearby Metro station as part of the investigation. No arrests have been made.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said: "It'll be a prolonged, but very deliberate investigation to determine what happened here. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims that were struck here tonight."
LA Mayor Karen Bass tweeted: "Today, an SUV drove onto a sidewalk near the North Hollywood Metro Station, striking a group of street vendors and pedestrians. Tragically, preliminary reports indicate that three people have lost their lives and others have been injured. First responders are on the scene, and my office is closely coordinating with City departments as authorities work to determine what caused this horrific incident. I'm heartbroken for the families of everyone impacted. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available."
