Introduction to the Incident
NBC4 Investigates confirmed Sunday that the man suspected of driving into a crowd of people outside an East Hollywood club had previously been convicted of felony battery.
LAPD Captain Ben Fernandes confirms to NBC4 that 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez was sentenced in 2020 for attacking a man outside of a Laguna Beach Whole Foods in June 2019. He was on parole at the time of Saturday’s crash, but it’s unclear whether it was in connection with the 2019 incident or another case.
Suspect’s Criminal History
The San Clemente resident has had at least 11 criminal cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
The Orange County DA’s office also confirms an extensive criminal history for Ramirez dating back to 2014, including a felony charge for assault with a deadly weapon using force likely to produce greater bodily injury, the same charge he is facing for Saturday’s crash.
Ramirez’s most recent charge was in January 2022, when he was charged with felony domestic battery and entered a not guilty plea. That case remains open.
Ramirez also has a pending DUI case, according to the Orange County DA’s Office.
The Crash Incident
At least 37 people were injured, seven of those in critical condition, after Ramirez allegedly plowed into a crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub in what’s believed to have been an intentional act early Saturday morning.
The incident was reported at about 2 a.m. near the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Vermont Avenue, the Los Angeles Police Department said. There, the driver struck a food vending cart and a large group of people outside a club, according to Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Adam VanGerpen.
Sgt. Travis Ward, LAPD Central Traffic Division Watch Commander, said the driver was pulled out of the vehicle, beaten and shot after the collision. He was then transported to the hospital and taken into surgery, where he is described as being in stable condition. For this reason, he said, LAPD was unable to determine if the driver was intoxicated.
The crash appears to have been intentional, according to LAPD Commander Lillian Carranza.
Two LAPD sources told NBC4 that the driver was fighting in the club and was kicked out of the venue. He returned to the club and began to fight again. He was thrown out by security for being intoxicated and disruptive, according to law enforcement. The man then got in his car and drove into the crowd, according to the sources.
Ramirez is facing charges for assault with a deadly weapon likely to produce greater bodily injury, LAPD said.
At least 30 people were injured in the crash, multiple in serious condition. Tracey Leong reports for the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on July 19, 2025.
Pictures from the scene showed a bashed-up grey vehicle straddling the sidewalk with debris strewn across the floor. At least a dozen firefighters can be seen alongside a number of people sitting on the floor on blankets.
In another picture, firefighters appear to be helping to lift someone off the ground by the car.
A man who was inside the nightclub told NBC News that he heard a “loud bang,” and that a crowd of people ducked, believing they’d heard gunshots.
“We look out the club, and it’s a car into the hole right there,” he said. “And then it’s crazy, because people everywhere, lying down, unconscious, people, bleeding out and stuff.”
Seven people are in critical condition, alongside six people in serious condition, LAFD said in a separate statement, with 10 others being treated for injury. Seven other individuals declined help at the scene. It said 124 fire personnel assisted at the scene.
The victims were described as 12 men and 18 women in their 20s and 30s, according to Carranza. Sgt. Ward said there were no confirmed fatalities.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred early Saturday morning outside our venue,” The Vermont Hollywood said in a statement. “Our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”
Investigation and Aftermath
Police have not released the name of the driver but said he is in custody as he recovers in the hospital. It’s unclear what charges he may face.
Law enforcement is searching for the gunman who shot the driver. He was last seen heading westbound on Vermont Avenue after he opened fire. Police say he’s described as being 5-feet-9-inches tall, about 180 pounds, bald and wore a blue jersey.
Anyone with information on the case should contact LAPD’s Rampart Division at 213-484-3424. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Conclusion
The East Hollywood crash incident has left many injured and raises concerns about public safety. The suspect’s violent criminal history and the intentional nature of the crash have sparked outrage and calls for justice. As the investigation continues, it is essential to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
FAQs
Q: What happened in the East Hollywood crash incident?
A: A driver allegedly plowed into a crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub, injuring at least 37 people, with seven in critical condition.
Q: Who is the suspect in the crash incident?
A: The suspect is 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez, who has a violent criminal history, including previous convictions for felony battery and assault with a deadly weapon.
Q: What charges is the suspect facing?
A: The suspect is facing charges for assault with a deadly weapon likely to produce greater bodily injury.
Q: Is the suspect in custody?
A: Yes, the suspect is in custody as he recovers in the hospital.
Q: What is the status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement is searching for the gunman who shot the driver.
