Hawthorne, CA (August 15, 2025) – A hit-and-run collision involving a vehicle and multiple pedestrians left six people injured Friday afternoon near the I-105 East to I-405 North connector at the West Imperial Hwy off-ramp. The incident, which occurred around 4:11 p.m., triggered a large-scale emergency response and left authorities from both CHP and Hawthorne Police working to determine jurisdiction and cause.
Initial reports confirm that the vehicle struck the pedestrians either on or near the Imperial Hwy off-ramp, though conflicting details left some uncertainty as to whether the crash occurred on the ramp itself or adjacent to it. All six injured parties were transported by fire personnel to Harbor UCLA Medical Center in Carson for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not yet been disclosed.
Responding officers from Hawthorne PD followed emergency crews to the hospital, while California Highway Patrol units arrived shortly after to coordinate with hospital staff and local law enforcement. As of Friday evening, the driver involved had not been located, and no vehicle description had been made public.
Investigators are working to confirm where the crash occurred, which could determine whether CHP or Hawthorne PD retains primary responsibility for the case. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and hospital interviews are all expected to play a role in the ongoing investigation.
Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Incidents in California
Friday’s serious pedestrian crash near the I-105 and I-405 connector underscores the increasing danger pedestrians face even in areas not traditionally considered foot-traffic zones. Although freeway ramps are not designed for pedestrian activity, people are often present near off-ramps due to public transit access, encampments, or roadway emergencies—each of which brings heightened risk when combined with fast-moving or distracted drivers.
This particular incident is notable not only for the number of victims—six—but also for the driver’s decision to flee, which significantly complicates recovery for those injured. Hit-and-run drivers who leave the scene of a crash involving injury or death face severe legal consequences under California law, but many cases go unsolved without cooperation from witnesses or camera evidence.
Pedestrian victims of these crashes often experience lasting physical and emotional trauma. Long-term medical care, loss of mobility, and financial stress from missed work or uncovered treatment costs are just some of the many impacts families must contend with in the aftermath.
Local agencies such as CHP and Hawthorne PD continue to collaborate on efforts to reduce hit-and-run rates, including public awareness campaigns and improved surveillance infrastructure. But enforcement alone cannot prevent every tragedy—especially in high-speed, high-volume traffic zones like the I-105/I-405 interchange.
If you or someone you love was injured in a pedestrian hit-and-run, Local Accident Reports is here to provide the resources you need. From connecting with trusted legal professionals to helping you understand your medical and recovery options, we’re committed to supporting your next steps. Contact us today to begin your path toward healing and accountability.