Ambulance struck by hit-and-run driver; two paramedics injured

Two Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics transporting a patient were injured late Saturday when their ambulance was broadsided by a hit-and-run driver in Watts, authorities said.

The ambulance was traveling south on Wilmington Avenue about 11 p.m. when it was struck by a vehicle headed west on Santa Ana Boulevard, Los Angeles Police Sgt. Cy Feliciano said. The driver of the non-emergency vehicle fled on foot.

One of the paramedics was knocked unconscious while the other suffered an injury to his right shoulder, Feliciano said.

Both were transported to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center where they were treated and released, Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey said.

The patient in the ambulance did not appear to be affected by the collision and was transported in another ambulance, Humphrey said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call South Traffic Division detectives at (323) 290-6063.

-- Corina Knoll

Comments

[J in Pasadena]

And the driver was probably unlicensed, driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle not in his name.

However, in other news, LAPD's new policy releases unregistered and uninsured vehicles back to friends of unlicensed drivers so they can drive again later.

[Steve M.]

Too late. The driver has made a "run for the border."

Maybe Charlie Beck will start impounding unregistered or uninsured autos?

[James T]

I wouldn't be surprised if it was really the LAFD ambulance's fault. Those guys are dirty rotten liars, based on my personal experience.

[RJ]

IN RESPONSE TO DIRTY ROTTEN LIARS: The job those men and women do you wouldnt dare even go into such situations or work in such a warzone yourself. LAFD is here to protect and serve and the sad truth is no one would help you in the streets of Watts except for these paramendics you call liars, so think twice before you call 911 if you live in los angeles city territory, and save us all including the hospital from coming!