Suspected DUI Driver Anthony Alva-Palafox Identified in Anaheim Student Crash
Anthony Alva-Palafox, a 27-year-old man, has been identified as the suspected DUI driver involved in a serious incident at an Anaheim High School. The event occurred when Alva-Palafox allegedly crashed into eight students from the high school’s track and field team on Wednesday, while they were running.
Details of the Incident
The collision took place around 3 p.m. at the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and W. North Street. Eyewitnesses reported that the students were waiting at a corner when a red Toyota Corolla veered onto the sidewalk, striking them.
Injuries and Responses
- Eight students, aged 16 to 17, were hit.
- Seven students were taken to the hospital; five have been released.
- Two students sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The students’ coach and nearby medical facility staff quickly came to their aid following the accident. The incident prompted Anaheim High School to conduct a crisis response meeting to support affected students and families emotionally.
Legal and Police Actions
Alva-Palafox was arrested shortly after the crash on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) of both alcohol and drugs. The Anaheim Police Department noted that he showed signs of intoxication at the scene. His bail was set at $100,000, and he has since been released.
Police have impounded the Toyota Corolla involved in the accident and are awaiting results from a blood analysis to confirm Alva-Palafox’s level of intoxication.
Community Reactions
The incident has deeply affected the local community. Linda Martinez, a resident of Anaheim, expressed her concern, stating that many families are impacted by this tragic event.
This crash is reminiscent of previous incidents where impaired driving has harmed vulnerable groups in the community, such as a 2022 incident involving law enforcement recruits.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active. Authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information to reach out to the Anaheim Police Department at 714-765-1900 or the Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.
