Eight children were hospitalized with minor injuries after a 79-year-old woman lost control of her vehicle and crashed into Grand View Preschool in Glendale while children were participating in summer camp.
The incident happened in the school's parking lot and children's play area, where witnesses described a chaotic scene as the vehicle struck a Mercedes before continuing into the area where the children were playing.
A witness who rushed toward the scene said she acted instinctively after seeing people running toward the preschool.
“By instinct, I just ran.”
The witness said she ultimately helped a young boy who had been injured during the crash.
“I had to care for a little boy that was bleeding from his head.”
The boy's injury initially appeared concerning, but the report said it was ultimately determined to be superficial.
What Authorities Say
Glendale police said the driver remained at the scene and was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Police also said there was no indication the crash was intentional and that investigators currently believe it was an accident.
According to police, the driver may have been attempting a U-turn when she apparently confused the accelerator and brake pedals.
Authorities described the woman as appearing visibly shaken after the collision. Police said her demeanor suggested she was in shock following what had happened.
The eight children were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Officials said all eight were expected to be released to their families after suffering minor injuries.
Key Facts
- Location: Grand View Preschool in Glendale.
- Driver: 79-year-old woman.
- Children Injured: Eight.
- Injuries: Reported as minor; one child was initially described as bleeding from the head.
- Possible Cause: Police believe the driver may have confused the gas and brake pedals during a U-turn.
- Drugs/Alcohol: Police said the driver was not under the influence.
- Intent: Authorities said there is currently no indication the crash was intentional.
- Criminal Charges: Police do not currently expect to file charges.
- Investigation: Officers are still determining whether distraction played a role.
WHY IT MATTERS
The crash has raised concerns about safety at a preschool where young children were spending the day at summer camp. Because the vehicle entered an area occupied by children, even a relatively low-speed mistake could have resulted in far more serious injuries.
The fact that all eight children reportedly suffered only minor injuries was described as fortunate given the circumstances. The incident also highlights the importance of vehicle and pedestrian safety around schools, particularly in areas where cars and children are in close proximity.
Police are continuing to investigate whether the driver was distracted. If investigators determine that distraction or another form of negligent driving contributed to the crash, authorities could reconsider their decision regarding potential charges.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
The school’s plans remain unclear. Reporters said no one from the preschool agreed to discuss whether the facility would close, relocate students, or make changes to the damaged area.
Officials also had not confirmed whether the affected portion of the property would be red-tagged or otherwise restricted while investigators and officials assess the damage.
The children who were injured are expected to recover, while investigators continue examining exactly how the vehicle left the parking area and entered the children's play space.
A Skeptical View
While the preliminary evidence points to an accidental crash, the investigation is not complete. Police have not yet determined whether distraction, a medical issue, a mechanical problem, or another factor contributed to the driver's loss of control. The explanation involving confusion between the accelerator and brake pedals remains an investigative theory rather than a final determination. Likewise, the absence of suspected drug or alcohol impairment does not by itself establish exactly what caused the collision.
WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW
- Was the driver distracted immediately before the crash?
- Did a medical or mechanical issue contribute to the collision?
- What exactly caused the vehicle to enter the children's play area?
- Will the preschool remain open during the cleanup and investigation?
- Will officials require additional safety measures around the damaged area?
- Could investigators ultimately determine that criminal charges are warranted?