Two people suspected of burglary crashed their vehicle into a Los Angeles Metro bus and at least one other car in the Westlake neighborhood on Friday, injuring multiple people and triggering a large emergency response. The collision, reported around midday on 6th Street, shut down several lanes as first responders flooded the area.
The Los Angeles Fire Department said the crash happened just before noon on 6th Street, according to ABC7. Aerial footage from AIR7 showed a silver SUV with heavy front-end damage. ABC7 reported that both suspects were in serious condition, while a bus passenger was taken to a hospital in fair condition. The outlet noted the story was still developing as investigators continued their work at the scene.
Police: Burglary Led to the Collision
NBC Los Angeles reports that the incident started with a reported burglary near Miramar Street and West 3rd Street, according to the LAPD. Officers later caught up with the suspect vehicle on 6th Street near Bixel, shortly before it struck a Metro bus and at least one other car. The Los Angeles Fire Department treated six people for minor injuries, and at least one person was taken into custody as authorities documented the crash site.
Transit Safety in the Spotlight
Crashes involving public transit vehicles keep the spotlight on safety for riders and operators across Los Angeles. A deadly Metro bus hijacking in September 2024 led to renewed scrutiny and promises of safety upgrades from city and transit officials, as reported by CBS Los Angeles. Advocates say incidents like Friday's, in which a public bus was hit during a law enforcement incident, complicate those efforts and keep transit safety high on the local agenda.
Investigation Underway
Officials told ABC7 that additional details were not immediately available while detectives canvassed the area and reviewed any available footage. Emergency crews, tow operators, and Metro staff worked to remove debris, clear the wrecked vehicles, and reopen traffic lanes. Nearby traffic remained disrupted into the afternoon, and police asked anyone with information or video of the crash to contact investigators as the case remains under active review.
Commuter Impact
The collision briefly snarled traffic along a busy stretch of central Los Angeles and forced some transit riders to adjust their routes, NBC Los Angeles reported. Authorities said they plan to update the public as more information becomes available.
