The suspect accused of driving his car through a crowd of people in Los Angeles is a convicted felon who was out on parole, reports said.
Fernando Ramirez, 29, from San Clemente, is anticipated to face a felony charge of assault with a deadly weapon following an incident early Saturday that resulted in 36 injuries outside the Vermont Hollywood nightclub.
In 2020, Ramirez was convicted of felony battery for attacking a man outside a Whole Foods in June 2019, according to KNBC. At the time of the recent crash, he was on parole, though it remains unclear if it is related to the 2019 incident or a different case.
Reportedly, Ramirez has been involved in at least 11 criminal cases, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, as per KNBC. In January 2022, he was charged with felony domestic battery and pled not guilty. That case is still open, along with a pending DUI case, as cited by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
A vehicle sits on the sidewalk after ramming into a crowd of people waiting to enter a nightclub along a busy boulevard in Los Angeles early Saturday, July 19, 2025. (AP/Damian Dovarganes)
Lee added that he was aware of reports that the suspect was kicked out of the Vermont Hollywood nightclub, but that he could not confirm whether that was the case. He said it was something the police were “definitely” looking into.
A line of people — mostly women — were waiting to enter the Vermont Hollywood around 2 a.m. when they were struck by a car that also hit a food vending cart and valet stand, Fire Capt. Adam VanGerpen said Saturday.
At least 36 people were treated for injuries including fractures and lacerations, police said Sunday without providing updates on their conditions.
The suspect in the car-ramming incident is a convicted felon who was out on parole, a report said. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)
“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,” Vermont Hollywood management said in a statement. “We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the person responsible for this horrific act is held fully accountable. We also want to extend our sincere gratitude to the first responders for their swift and compassionate action in assisting those affected.”
