11/17/2022
WHITTIER: On 11-16-22 at approximately 6:36am, LASD recruit academy class 464 was on a morning run near the STARS center training academy. The recruits were on Mills avenue near Trumball Street being escorted by two patrol cars. A total of about 75 recruits were in formation when for unknown reasons a Honda SUV veered into oncoming lanes and drove into the formation striking several recruits before crashing into a light pole. After hitting the light pole, the car became immobilized. Deputies said that if it wasn’t for the light post, the incident would have been a lot worse. After the collision several recruits were injured with various injuries. Fellow recruits and deputies quickly began treating the injured and ran to a nearby fire station to request assistance. Paramedics and several deputies arrived on scene and began triaging. Prior to ambulance arrival, several recruits were transported to several trauma centers in patrol vehicles. LACOFD said this action may have saved lives. LACOFD fire helicopters also responded and assisted. There were 22 injuries varying from broken bones, head trauma and a loss of limb. One of the recruits was reported to be on a ventilator. Some of the injured recruits were transported to UCI trauma center in Orange. LA Sheriffs helicopters arrived at the hospital as they brought family members to be with their loved ones. The driver of the vehicle was identified as a 22 year old driver and no alcohol or drugs were suspected. The investigation continues.
