Authorities have apprehended a man in California who is accused of running into a group of high school track athletes on Wednesday afternoon. The incident resulted in eight teenage students requiring hospitalization.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Anthony Alva-Palafox from Anaheim, faces charges of driving under the influence with injury, as per records from the Anaheim Police Department (APD). He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of both alcohol and drugs.
The collision occurred shortly before 3 p.m. when a group of eight track runners from Anaheim High School were stopped at a red light during their practice session, according to an APD statement.
Alva-Palafox allegedly struck the teenagers with his vehicle.
According to the APD, the victims, consisting of both male and female students aged 16 to 17, were transported to the hospital, and all seven are expected to recover fully.
APD said seven of the eight children, who were males and females ages 16 to 17, were taken to the hospital and are expected to survive.
They were accompanied by their adult coach.
A large police response was spotted at the scene. (KTTV)
Investigators said Alva-Palafox was also taken to the hospital with injuries and showed “objective signs of intoxication” at the scene.
The sedan was impounded, and a search warrant is in progress.
Police said eight children were injured and seven were taken to the hospital after the Anaheim crash. (KTTV)
Anaheim High School released a statement on social media noting it has been in contact with the teens’ families and will be hosting a crisis response meeting with student athletes to provide support.
“We ask for your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this unfortunate event,” school officials wrote. “Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.”
