Three killed and several injured after SUV hits pedestrians near North Hollywood Metro station

Three people were pronounced dead and at least three others were taken to hospitals in critical condition after a white SUV collided with pedestrians near the North Hollywood Metro station on Tuesday afternoon, officials said. The crash occurred at about 5:55 p.m. in the 5300 block of North Lankershim Boulevard, close to Chandler Boulevard.

Los Angeles Fire Department personnel reported that the vehicle struck multiple pedestrians, though the exact cause of the collision has not yet been determined. Paramedics transported the injured victims to local medical facilities, and the driver, described as a man in his 60s, was extricated from the SUV and hospitalized in critical condition.

The Los Angeles Police Department indicated that the driver was conscious but appeared to be in shock and was traveling southbound at the time of the incident. Aerial footage showed a large debris field and several fire trucks at the scene. Nearby streets, including the intersection of Lankershim and Chandler, were closed for several hours while investigators worked. Metro service continued to operate as usual.

"Today, an SUV drove onto a sidewalk near the North Hollywood Metro Station, striking a group of street vendors and pedestrians. Tragically, preliminary reports indicate that three people have lost their lives and others have been injured. First responders are on the scene, and my office is closely coordinating with City departments as authorities work to determine what caused this horrific incident. I'm heartbroken for the families of everyone impacted. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available," L.A. Mayor Karen Bass said in a social media post.