Los Angeles, CA (July 31, 2026) – A young girl was hurt on Thursday, July 30, after a police vehicle struck her on East 88th Place in South Los Angeles.
Witnesses said the girl’s mother had just parked along the street and was helping her out of their car when a Los Angeles police pursuit ended in a crash nearby. Officers had reportedly been chasing three suspects before the pursuit came to a stop close to the same block.
A short time later, a patrol vehicle struck the child a short distance from where the pursuit ended, according to witnesses. Her mother was also injured, and family members said both were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Witnesses added that a third person, possibly an officer, may have also been taken to a hospital following the wreck.
The exact circumstances surrounding the pursuit remain under review.
We hope the girl and her mother recover fully from their injuries.
Who Is Liable When a Police Pursuit Injures a Bystander in Los Angeles, CA?
Liability in these cases can depend on whether the pursuing officer or another driver caused the harm, and California law allows claims against public entities in some circumstances through a formal government claims process, though such claims usually involve strict notice deadlines and procedural requirements not found in typical injury claims.
People struck by a vehicle during a pursuit can face serious harm, including broken bones, head trauma, or long-term mobility issues. Even a low-speed impact can cause fractures or internal harm that isn’t immediately apparent, and children in particular may need ongoing medical monitoring after this kind of trauma. Recovery can involve follow-up care and time away from school or work for family members providing support.
When a case involves multiple potentially responsible parties, a personal injury lawyer can help a family understand who may share responsibility, including a driver involved in the pursuit or the public entity that employed the officer.
An attorney can also explain what types of compensation may be available, such as coverage for medical costs or lost income, and can help gather evidence like witness accounts before it becomes harder to obtain.
At Saleh Law Group, we understand how disorienting a pursuit-related crash can feel for a family trying to figure out the next steps. We can review the specific facts of your case and answer any questions you may have about the claims process.
If you or a loved one were wounded in a similar crash in Los Angeles, you can reach Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371. Our team can help clarify what options may be worth exploring under California law.
