Officers stand at the scene near The Vermont Hollywood music venue after a vehicle drove into a crowd early Saturday. Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty Images
EAST HOLLYWOOD, CA – In a shocking and chaotic scene early Saturday morning, July 19, 2025, at least 30 people were injured after a car intentionally drove into a crowd outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub near Santa Monica Blvd and Vermont Ave.
Authorities with LAPD confirmed that the suspect, 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez, had been kicked out of the club just eight minutes before the attack. Surveillance video reviewed by police clearly shows Ramirez intentionally driving a Nissan Versa onto the sidewalk, swerving around a bus, and slamming into a large crowd around 2 a.m., as the venue was letting out for the night.
What Happened?
The crowd, which included clubgoers, valet attendants, and taco stand workers, was blindsided by the crash. One person suffered critical injuries, while others sustained a range of injuries but are expected to survive, according to officials.
After the crash, witnesses say bystanders pulled the driver out of the car, attacking him physically. Moments later, an unrelated suspect—described as a bald Hispanic man wearing a blue jersey—shot Ramirez in the buttocks before fleeing. He remains at large, and LAPD is working to identify and arrest him.
Legal Perspective: Is This a Personal Injury Case?
From a legal standpoint, this tragic event has multiple layers that may fall under California personal injury law:
- Victims of intentional vehicular assault—even if criminal charges are filed—can still file civil lawsuits for compensation.
- If alcohol was involved (as suggested by reports), this could further impact liability and the extent of damages.
- Businesses like nightclubs also have a duty of care to patrons and workers. If there were security failures or lack of preventative measures, premises liability might come into play.
Anyone injured in this incident—or any similar situation—may have the right to pursue legal action for medical bills, emotional distress, lost wages, and more.
What Should You Do If You Were There?
If you or someone you know was involved in this terrifying event—even if injuries seem minor—you may still have a case. These types of violent and traumatic events can result in long-term emotional and physical consequences that deserve professional legal attention.
Don’t wait. Contact us at Custodio & Dubey LLP to understand your rights.
We’re here to help victims navigate the aftermath with compassion and experience.
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July 28, 2025