Hit-and-run driver plows into coffee shop in Highland Park

ByABC7.com staff KABC logo
Monday, September 28, 2015
Hit-and-run driver plows into coffee shop in Highland Park
Police are searching for a hit-and-run driver who lost control and plowed his pickup truck into a coffee shop in Highland Park early Sunday.

HIGHLAND PARK, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Police are searching for a hit-and-run driver who lost control and plowed his pickup truck into a coffee shop in Highland Park early Sunday.

The suspect crashed into The Highland Cafe in the 5000 block of York Boulevard at 2 a.m.

Witnesses told police they smelled burning rubber and then saw the suspect make a left turn, lose control and crash into the coffee shop.

Surveillance video shows the suspect repeatedly attempting to back up and leave, and several people crowding around his vehicle.

"There was a lot of people around trying to stop him, but he was still able to get out and take off so there is some footage," owner Alfonso Arellano said. "We're hoping someone will come forward."

The suspect fled the scene eastbound on York Boulevard. His vehicle was described as a mid-80s tan Ford pickup truck.

The Highland Cafe announced on Instagram that it would remain closed on Sunday as the cleanup continues.

"Unfortunately we will be closed today due to a wreckless hit and run. Thankfully no one was hurt #besidesourfeelings," staff wrote.

Details on when it would reopen were not immediately released.

Anyone with information on this case was urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department's Central Traffic Division.