Los Angeles County, CA – A female hit-and-run suspect was taken into custody Sunday night after a brief police pursuit ended in a crash that damaged a traffic signal in Los Angeles County. Authorities say the incident began with a collision in Hawthorne before escalating into a short chase.
Police confirmed that the suspect refused medical treatment at the scene and was arrested following the crash. Her identity has not yet been released.
Incident Overview
The incident unfolded around 8:30 p.m. Sunday near El Segundo Boulevard and Isis Avenue in Hawthorne. According to the Hawthorne Police Department (HPD), officers were dispatched to investigate a reported collision at the intersection.
While officers were at the scene awaiting assistance from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) to assume responsibility for the case, one of the drivers involved in the crash suddenly fled the area.
Authorities immediately initiated a pursuit.
Timeline of Events
After leaving the original crash scene, the female driver was followed by Hawthorne police officers. The pursuit, however, lasted only a few minutes.
The chase came to an abrupt end near the intersection of Aviation Boulevard and Imperial Highway, where the suspect crashed her vehicle. Aerial footage from SkyCal later showed the aftermath, including a damaged sedan and a downed traffic light at the location.
Officials confirmed that only one vehicle appeared to be involved in the final crash.
Details From Police
Hawthorne police officers stated that emergency medical services were called to evaluate the suspect following the crash. However, the woman declined medical transport despite the collision.
Officers then placed her under arrest at the scene.
Police said they were still determining whether the suspect would be formally booked by HPD or transferred to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Her name has not yet been publicly released, and potential charges have not been confirmed.
Key Facts
- Incident occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. Sunday
- Initial collision location: El Segundo Boulevard and Isis Avenue
- Pursuit ended near Aviation Boulevard and Imperial Highway
- Suspect: Unidentified female driver
- Outcome: Arrested after crash
- Medical transport: Refused
- Property damage: Traffic signal knocked down
- Agencies involved: Hawthorne Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Scene Description
Aerial footage showed multiple patrol vehicles surrounding a damaged sedan near the intersection where the chase ended. A traffic light pole was visibly knocked down beside the vehicle, indicating the force of the impact.
No immediate reports of additional injuries or civilian involvement were released late Sunday night.
Investigators have not disclosed whether alcohol, speed, or reckless driving played a role in either the original collision or the pursuit-related crash.
Additional Context: Dangers of Hit-and-Run Incidents
Hit-and-run crashes present significant public safety risks. Drivers who flee accident scenes often create additional hazards, especially when police pursuits become necessary. Failing to remain at the scene of a collision can delay emergency response efforts and increase the risk of further injury.
Under California law, leaving the scene of an accident can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the circumstances, including whether injuries occurred or property damage was involved.
Short pursuits such as this one can still pose danger to other motorists and pedestrians, particularly in high-traffic areas like major intersections in Los Angeles County.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the initial crash and the pursuit. Officials have not yet released information about possible charges, nor have they confirmed whether additional individuals were involved in the first collision.
Further updates are expected once booking details and the suspect’s identity are confirmed.
Conclusion
A Sunday night collision in Hawthorne quickly escalated into a brief pursuit that ended in another crash and an arrest. While no serious injuries were immediately reported, the incident caused property damage and temporarily disrupted traffic in the area. Police remain focused on determining the full sequence of events and any criminal charges that may follow.
If you witnessed the incident or have information that could assist investigators, authorities encourage you to contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
