3 Dead, Several Critically Injured After Minivan Crashes Into Pedestrians In North Hollywood

Three people were killed and at least three others critically injured after a minivan crashed into pedestrians and street vendors on a pavement near a metro station in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, during Tuesday evening rush hour. Authorities have not determined what caused the crash and have not ruled out the possibility of an intentional act.

The minivan struck people at a busy intersection shortly before 6 pm on Tuesday before coming to a stop underneath a food vendor's tent. The driver, a man in his 60s, and at least two other people were critically injured, according to authorities.

Los Angeles Police Captain Warner Castillo said the driver was pulled out of the vehicle and was conscious and able to speak, although he appeared to be in shock. Investigators have not established whether the incident was deliberate or accidental.

"We don't know if it was done intentionally, if it was done by accident," Castillo said at a news conference.

The minivan remained on the pavement on Tuesday night, with its driver's side door open and airbag deployed. Fire engines and emergency crews were present at the scene as a helicopter flew overhead.

Luis Luna-Guzman, who was working at a nearby burger stall, said he heard a loud bang before seeing people lying on the ground and others rushing towards the crash site.

He described seeing a woman near the bicycle racks with blood on her face, arms and legs. Her eyes were closed and she was moaning in pain. Luna-Guzman said he told her not to move and assured her that help was on the way. He also saw another woman's body nearby and a third woman lying motionless on the stairs leading to the metro station.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the victims included street vendors and pedestrians. Expressing grief over the incident, she said she was heartbroken for the families affected.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said investigators would examine surveillance footage from the surrounding area as part of what he described as a "prolonged but very deliberate investigation". Authorities have yet to establish the circumstances that led to the deadly crash.