Vehicle Plows into Crowd Outside Hollywood Nightclub: 36 Injured

In the early hours of July 19, 2025, a vehicle plowed into a crowd outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub in East Hollywood, Los Angeles, injuring at least 36 people, seven critically. The driver, identified as 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez of San Clemente, California, was subsequently assaulted and shot by bystanders. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and seeking a suspect believed to be responsible for the shooting.

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) received multiple 9-1-1 calls at approximately 1:59 a.m. reporting that a compact passenger vehicle had struck numerous individuals near the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Vermont Avenue. Upon arrival, emergency responders found 30 adults requiring medical attention. Of these, 23 were transported to area hospitals, including seven in critical condition, six in serious condition, and ten in fair condition. The remaining seven individuals declined ambulance transportation. A total of 124 LAFD personnel were deployed to manage the scene and provide care to the victims.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Ramirez had been ejected from The Vermont Hollywood approximately eight minutes prior to the incident for being disruptive. Shortly thereafter, he drove his Nissan Versa onto the sidewalk, colliding with the crowd, a food vending cart, and a valet stand. Following the crash, bystanders pulled Ramirez from his vehicle and assaulted him. Paramedics later discovered that he had sustained a gunshot wound to the lower back. Authorities are searching for a suspect described as a man with a goatee, wearing a blue Dodgers jacket, believed to be responsible for the shooting.

Ramirez has an extensive criminal history, including at least 11 prior cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. Notably, he was convicted of felony battery in 2020 for attacking a man outside a Whole Foods grocery store in June 2019. At the time of the July 19 incident, Ramirez was on parole. He is expected to face felony assault with a deadly weapon charges.

The motive behind the attack remains under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in identifying the shooter.

This incident highlights concerns about public safety in nightlife venues and the potential for violence following disputes. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of parole supervision and the challenges in preventing individuals with criminal histories from reoffending.

The Vermont Hollywood is a well-known nightclub in East Hollywood, hosting various events and attracting large crowds. On the night of the incident, the venue was hosting a reggae-hip hop event from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Capt. Ben Fernandes of the LAPD stated, "When you review the video, it's clear that he drove that vehicle down a sidewalk and around a bus. It was an intentional act."

The Vermont Hollywood released a statement expressing their condolences: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred early Saturday morning outside our venue. Our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time."

Vehicle-ramming incidents have occurred globally in recent years, often resulting in significant casualties. For example, in 2016, a truck attack in Nice, France, killed 86 people. While motives vary, such incidents underscore the potential for vehicles to be used as weapons in crowded public spaces.

As the investigation continues, the community remains vigilant, seeking answers and solutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.