A California man has been charged with attempted murder and carjacking after allegedly crashing a stolen vehicle into a McDonald's drive-thru line, injuring eight people including a 19-year-old who prosecutors say was launched approximately 20 feet by the impact.
Background
Juan Luis Estrada, 45, of Perris, is accused of stealing a white Toyota Camry at knifepoint in downtown Los Angeles on June 16 before embarking on what authorities describe as a violent rampage through Culver City. According to the Culver City Police Department, Estrada first struck four pedestrians near Centinela Avenue and Washington Boulevard in a hit-and-run collision before fleeing the scene without stopping.
Officers responding to that initial collision received reports of another hit-and-run in the 3800 block of Sepulveda Boulevard, where the same vehicle struck another motorist and again fled. Using witness statements, the vehicle's license plate, and Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology, investigators tracked Estrada's movements through the city.
The Investigation
At approximately 7:26 p.m., officers located Estrada near Centinela Avenue and attempted to stop him. Police allege Estrada refused to yield and fled eastbound on Culver Boulevard, initiating a pursuit that witnesses described as harrowing.
"During the pursuit, officers observed the suspect drive with an extreme disregard for public safety," police said in a press release. "The suspect traveled at high speeds, ran multiple red lights, drove into opposing lanes of traffic, and weaved recklessly around other vehicles."
Perhaps most disturbing to investigators, authorities say officers observed Estrada repeatedly steering toward pedestrians who were in or near the roadway.
"The suspect's actions created a clear and immediate danger to community members and demonstrated a complete disregard for human life," police alleged. "We believe he was intentionally attempting to strike pedestrians."
The Charges
Estrada's evening rampage finally ended at a McDonald's in the 200 block of Washington Boulevard when, according to police, he collided head-on with another vehicle in the drive-thru lane. Officers say Estrada exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by pursuing officers.
Estrada has been charged with attempted murder, carjacking, felony evading, battery and resisting arrest. He remains in custody as the case proceeds through the court system. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is handling prosecution.
Surveillance video allegedly captured Estrada striking multiple people with the stolen Camry, including 19-year-old Brandon Mendez, who spoke to local ABC affiliate KABC about his injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Eight people were injured during Estrada's alleged rampage through Culver City on June 16
- Police say Estrada was intentionally steering toward pedestrians and demonstrated "complete disregard for human life"
- Victim Brandon Mendez suffered severe internal bleeding, spinal and cerebral fractures, a torn aorta requiring a stent, and had his spleen removed
- Investigators used ALPR technology and witness statements to track the suspect's movements
- Additional charges are anticipated as detectives continue reviewing evidence and surveillance footage
What's Next
Estrada is awaiting further court proceedings in Los Angeles County. Police say additional charges are anticipated as detectives continue reviewing evidence, surveillance footage, and witness statements. The investigation remains active.