Car Strikes Eight Anaheim High School Runners in ‘Nightmare Scenario’
Eight members of the Anaheim High School track team were hospitalized following a serious incident during practice on Wednesday afternoon. The collision occurred around 2:55 p.m. when a car drove off the road, striking the athletes as they waited for a traffic light at the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and North Street.
Details of the Incident
According to Anaheim Police Department spokesman Sgt. Matt Sutter, three students were transported immediately, while five others were taken to the hospital after receiving initial treatment at the scene. Reports indicate that the injured athletes, who range in age from freshmen to seniors, were practicing in the area.
A coach from the team informed local news outlet ABC7 that one student is in critical condition. The driver of the vehicle, a 27-year-old man from Anaheim, sustained injuries in the crash and was also taken to the hospital. He is currently under investigation for potential driving under the influence, though no arrests have been made.
Community Response
In the wake of the collision, Harbor Boulevard and North Street were temporarily closed as police conducted their investigation. School resource officers were present at the scene to support concerned parents, who were encouraged to reach out to either the school or Anaheim Police.
The incident brings to light the inherent risks runners face during practice. Coaching staff highlighted the dangers associated with practicing in public areas, noting how easily distractions can lead to unfortunate outcomes. Sherman Oaks Notre Dame track coach Joe McNab described such collisions as every coach’s “nightmare scenario.”
Historical Context of Running Safety
Tragic incidents involving runners are not new. In 2010, a 16-year-old Notre Dame runner, Conor Lynch, lost his life after being struck by an SUV while trying to cross Woodman Avenue. Leo Hernandez, a track coach at Monroe High School, recalled that one of his athletes was hit in 2009 but fortunately survived. Both coaches remain committed to safety, ensuring runners are supervised during their outdoor training sessions.
Conclusion
This latest accident underscores the importance of vigilance for both drivers and athletes. With track teams needing to log considerable mileage for competition preparation, the balance between training in safe environments and the necessity of outdoor practice remains a critical focus for coaches and schools alike.
