Los Angeles, California – A police pursuit came to a violent end Monday night in Hyde Park, resulting in a fiery car crash that left a 30-year-old woman in critical condition and injured four others, including a 12-year-old child, officials confirmed.
The chase, initiated by officers from the LAPD’s Southwest Division, was called off around 8:20 p.m. near Crenshaw Boulevard and Vernon Avenue. Moments later, a crash occurred involving an LAPD cruiser and a red sedan.
Firefighters responded swiftly to the scene in the 4300 block of South Crenshaw Boulevard. Two individuals trapped inside the red car had to be freed by emergency crews, according to LAFD spokesperson Margaret Stewart.
In total, five people were transported to local hospitals. The current status of the 12-year-old boy remains unknown.
Aerial footage from AIR7 showed first responders assisting victims and loading them into ambulances. The red sedan was heavily damaged, with its airbags deployed. Nearby, an LAPD patrol car was seen wrecked and scorched from fire, though both officers inside managed to escape without major injuries.
The suspect initially being chased, who is reportedly wanted for driving under the influence, managed to flee the scene. Police have not released a description of the individual.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact circumstances that led to the crash.
Source: ABC7
Who’s Responsible for a Crash After a Police Chase?
When a high-speed police chase ends in a crash, determining who is responsible isn’t always straightforward. These incidents can involve multiple vehicles, law enforcement, and sometimes innocent bystanders. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash related to a police pursuit, it’s essential to understand your legal options.
In California, liability in car accidents is typically based on negligence. If the fleeing suspect causes the collision, they can be held responsible for any resulting injuries or damages. However, victims may also question whether the police officers or department involved in the pursuit share any blame.
In some cases, law enforcement could be partially liable if the pursuit violated department policies or endangered public safety. For example, if officers continued chasing a suspect through densely populated areas or ignored protocol, that could open the door for a potential claim against the agency.
Victims of these types of accidents should consult a qualified Los Angeles car accident attorney to evaluate the circumstances and pursue compensation. An experienced lawyer can investigate whether the police acted recklessly and identify all liable parties.Determining fault in a police chase crash is complex, but victims don’t have to navigate it alone. Legal support can make a significant difference in recovering medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If you or a loved one suffered an accident, call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807 to schedule a free consultation. Hablamos Español.