East Hollywood Driver Charged with 37 Counts of Attempted Murder After Plowing into Crowd

Criminal Charges Filed

• 🎯 Fernando Ramirez, 29, faces 37 counts of attempted murder and 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon (his car).
• ⚖️ These charges stem from an incident where Ramirez allegedly intentionally drove his car onto a sidewalk, striking 37 pedestrians outside the Vermont Hollywood nightclub.
• ⚠️ Eight individuals sustained great bodily injuries, including serious fractures and broken bones.
• 🗓️ Ramirez is being held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment, facing a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted.

Incident Details and Response

• ⚡ The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on July 19th, when Ramirez is accused of driving onto a sidewalk crowded with people.
• 🚑 Over 100 first responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department and Police Department provided rapid triage, treatment, and transportation, preventing a mass casualty event.
• 🏥 23 individuals were transported to hospitals, with one of those being the driver, Ramirez, who sustained serious injuries.

Investigation and Public Appeal

• 🔍 Detectives are investigating the altercations that preceded Ramirez driving his car and are seeking the public's assistance in identifying and apprehending an unknown individual who shot Ramirez after the vehicle stopped.
• 🚨 The shooter is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is urged not to approach them but to call 911 or Crimestoppers.
• 🚗 The suspect's vehicle, a compact Nissan sedan, struck vending carts before stopping at a light pole, which may have limited further harm.
• 🤝 Law enforcement and the District Attorney's office are working closely to ensure justice for the victims and accountability for all responsible parties.

Legal Proceedings and History

• 🧐 The District Attorney's office is investigating Ramirez's extensive criminal history, including a 2022 domestic violence case in Orange County, to determine if prior offenses will be alleged.
• ⚖️ Evidence regarding the circumstances of Ramirez being out on bail for a previous charge will be presented in court.
• 🗣️ Officials emphasized that charges are allegations and that Ramirez is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.