Eight Students On Track Team Injured After Driver Crashes Into Them

Eight students from a California high school's track team were injured on Wednesday (December 10) when a car veered off the road and struck them in Anaheim. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. near Harbor Boulevard and North Street. The students, aged 16 and 17, were waiting for a traffic light to change during a training run when the crash happened. They were accompanied by an adult coach at the time.

The driver, identified as Anthony Alva-Palafox, 27, was traveling southbound when he lost control of his vehicle, hitting the group. According to police, Alva-Palafox displayed signs of intoxication and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of both alcohol and drugs. He was also taken to the hospital for injuries sustained in the crash. A blood analysis will determine his level of intoxication and the type of drugs involved.

Seven of the injured students were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. However, three of the students were in critical condition but are expected to survive.

The Anaheim Union High School District expressed its support, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers are with our students and their families during this time." The police have impounded Alva-Palafox's car and are conducting further investigations to determine any additional factors contributing to the crash.

The police are continuing their investigation, including executing a search warrant on the vehicle for additional evidence.