A Toyota Corolla recently went airborne during a police pursuit in South Los Angeles, crashing into several parked vehicles and completely tearing the roof off one of them.
The crash happened shortly before 1 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19. The Los Angeles Police Department said officers began pursuing the Corolla near Imperial Highway and Main Street after seeing it being driven recklessly.
The driver continued east on Imperial Highway before losing control near Wadsworth Avenue. Police said the Corolla missed a curve and instead continued straight along 114th Street.
Home-surveillance footage shows the entire incident. The Los Angeles Times reported that at least five parked cars were struck.
The Toyota Landed Partially Inside an SUV
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The Corolla came to rest partially inside an SUV belonging to resident Sheyda Morales, according to ABC7.
Another resident, Hector Gutierrez, said the impact removed the entire roof from his vehicle. He told the station that it was the third time his car had been struck in that area.
The Crash Damaged at Least Five Parked Cars
Video from the aftermath shows shattered glass, detached body panels and other debris scattered across the roadway. One parked car had extensive damage to its trunk and rear bumper.
Despite the widespread damage, police said the Corolla’s driver was the only person injured. ABC7 reported that he sustained a fractured nose.
Crews remained at the scene removing damaged vehicles several hours after the crash.
The Driver Was Arrested on Suspicion of Felony Evading
The driver was taken to a hospital before being taken into custody. LAPD arrested him on suspicion of felony evading. Authorities had not released his identity or announced any additional allegations as of Aug. 20. Investigators also had not disclosed the Toyota’s speed before the crash.
ABC7 reported that it remained unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role.