Police are revealing more details about a car-ramming attack outside an East Hollywood nightclub early Saturday morning, July 19, that injured more than 30 people. Now, investigators have revealed a potential motive and the suspect’s lengthy criminal history, as well as photos of the man accused of shooting the alleged attacker after the crash.
An alcohol-fueled attack?
Authorities told ABC News that the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez, was potentially motivated by revenge and may have unleashed his attack while in an alcohol-induced rage. Police said Ramirez had been kicked out of the Vermont Hollywood nightclub around 2 a.m. Afterward, officials say Ramirez got in his vehicle, made a U-turn and plowed into the crowd on the sidewalk.
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The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported Sunday, July 20, that at least 36 people were injured, with some suffering broken bones and cuts. All of the victims, as well as Ramirez, who was transported to the hospital with a gunshot wound following the attack, are listed in stable condition and expected to survive.
Police said toxicology tests are ongoing and will help determine whether alcohol was a factor in the crime. When authorities arrested Ramirez on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, his blood alcohol level was over the legal limit. As such, he could also be charged with a DUI, according to law enforcement.
Suspected shooter
Law enforcement also released a picture of the suspect accused of shooting Ramirez amid the frenzied scene moments after the crash. Officials have not released a name but describe the shooter as a 5-foot-6-inch, 150- to 170-pound, bald Hispanic man. He was last spotted wearing a blue Dodgers jacket and a light blue jersey with the number five, as well as blue jeans. LAPD said he has gauges in both ears and sports a goatee.
Video following the crash shows people pulling the driver from the car while punching and kicking him. Police say shortly after being pulled from his car, Ramirez was shot in the backside. The shooter ran from the scene and remains on the loose.
Ramirez’s criminal history revealed
Police say Ramirez has a lengthy criminal history, including serving time for attacking a man outside of a Whole Foods in June 2019. In January 2022, Ramirez was charged with domestic battery and entered a plea of not guilty. That case is still open.
In total, 11 criminal cases have been brought against Ramirez, which include misdemeanors and felonies, according to local media outlet NBC4.
