A police pursuit in South Los Angeles took a disturbing turn Thursday when witnesses say an LAPD officer struck a 6-year-old girl who was getting out of a parked car. The child and her mother were taken to the hospital, according to family members.
What Witnesses Describe
Witnesses told FOX 11 that the girl was hit along East 88th Place, just a short distance from where the chase vehicle crashed. One witness described the moment: "The young lady parked, parallel parked to get off the car to take out her daughter. Her daughter got out, the police hit her, the girl flew."
The police chase reportedly began as the LAPD pursued three suspects. The crash involved a pursuit vehicle and left three people hospitalized: the girl, her mother, and possibly the LAPD officer involved.
What Remains Unclear
LAPD officials have not confirmed that the officer struck the child, nor have they released the conditions of the three people hospitalized. Witness accounts have not been verified by police, and the investigation is still active.
Local Context in South Los Angeles
The incident occurred in a residential neighborhood near East 88th Place, a street in the South Los Angeles area. The scene drew immediate attention from neighbors, who watched as emergency crews arrived. The area is part of LAPD's South Bureau, which covers several neighborhoods south of downtown Los Angeles.
Background on Police Pursuits
Police chases have long been a point of contention in California cities. LAPD policy requires officers to weigh the danger of the pursuit against the seriousness of the suspected crime. High-speed chases in populated areas occasionally result in injuries to bystanders, prompting regular reviews and calls for stricter pursuit rules.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the girl's family is asking for answers. LAPD has not issued a public statement beyond confirming the chase and crash. Officials are expected to release more information after reviewing witness statements and any available video or body-camera footage.