Driver killed, passenger injured after vehicle crashes into South LA church

FLORENCE, SOUTH LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A driver was killed and his passenger was injured Saturday after crashing into a South Los Angeles church, authorities said.

It happened just after midnight in the 1000 block of E Manchester Avenue near Central Street in Florence.

According to police, the driver was heading westbound on Manchester at a high rate of speed and lost control. Investigators said the vehicle hit a light pole then crashed into the Challenge of Faith Church of God in Christ. No one was inside at the time of the crash.

"We're grateful this didn't happen during service," said Asst. Pastor David Jessie. "It could've been a lot worse. Also, there's a lot of foot traffic, and people are always walking, and more people could've been hurt."

The driver, who was described only as a man in his 40s, was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene.

His passenger, a woman, was injured and rushed to the hospital. Her condition is unknown.

It's unclear if alcohol played a role in the crash. A witness told Eyewitness News the driver ran a red light and lost control before crashing.

"Somebody should fix the dip right there, so this won't happen again," said Jessie. "As you can see, we're losing lives. It's a danger to the city."

Jessie also said this isn't the first time something like this has happened.

"This is probably the fourth time the cars of hit our church," he said. "We've been talking with the city, but not getting anywhere with them."

Church services have been canceled until all repairs are completed.

The collision remains under investigation.