LASD recruit injured in 2022 wrong-way crash in Whittier dies after long recovery battle

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- One of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department recruits who was struck when a wrong-way driver crashed into a group training in Whittier last year died of his injuries Friday.

Alejandro Martinez died at the UCLA Medical Center in Westwood after a long recovery battle. He had been listed in critical condition.

"Surrounded by his family, friends, Sheriff Luna, and other department members in support of his family, Alejandro has now gone to his eternal resting place," read a statement released by LASD. "Tragically, he was not able to fulfill his calling of helping others."

The Army veteran and Cal State Northridge graduate fought for months. His family said they were encouraged when he regained consciousness and started mouthing words, but his injuries proved too much.

In November 2022, dozens of law enforcement recruits were struck by an SUV during a training run and suffered injuries ranging from minor to critical.

Twelve were so badly injured they had to leave the academy.

"We were hoping he could continue the race, continue his life to hopefully have a career in law enforcement," said Burton Brink, a retired LASD sergeant who spoke about Martinez with ABC7 on Saturday. "Here he is trying very hard to get through the academy and his life is cut short."

Wrong-way driver slams into group of law-enforcement recruits out jogging in Whittier

Authorities said they were struck by a wrong-way driver during their early morning run. Five are currently in critical condition.

"Our condolences go out to Alejandro's family, friends, and academy classmates," read the department's statement. "He will forever live in our hearts & never be forgotten."

The driver of the SUV, 22-year-old Nicholas Gutierrez, was initially arrested but was released. No charges have been filed.

His attorney said Gutierrez fell asleep behind the wheel, calling it a "tragic accident."