Torrance Man Arrested for Hit-and-Run in Anaheim Chaos

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Police respond to a hit-and-run at a Halloween street takeover in Anaheim.

News Summary

On November 1, 2024, a Torrance man, Hassan Hamid Ali, was arrested for a hit-and-run incident during a Halloween street takeover in Anaheim. Ali’s reckless driving left two young men seriously injured. After fleeing the scene, he was apprehended on November 3, facing felony charges. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about dangerous street takeovers in the area, as police continue to address these reckless behaviors affecting community safety.

Chaos in Anaheim: Torrance Man Arrested for Hit-and-Run during Street Takeover

Anaheim was buzzing with excitement on the night of October 31, 2024, but what started as a festive celebration quickly spiraled into a scene of chaos and destruction. In the early hours of November 1, a 20-year-old man from Torrance named Hassan Hamid Ali was arrested following a violent hit-and-run incident at the busy intersection of State College Boulevard and Orangewood Avenue.

The clock struck 2 a.m., and as those in Halloween costumes gathered to enjoy the night, Ali’s black Dodge Charger was caught on video skidding out of control. Tragically, it collided with a group of pedestrians, leaving two young men aged 19 from Lancaster and Orange with severe injuries. Both victims endured a terrifying night, suffering from multiple broken bones, abrasions, and lacerations, which landed them in the hospital for urgent medical care.

After the shocking crash, Ali didn’t stick around to help. Instead, he fled the scene on foot, abandoning his vehicle with the injured teens trapped underneath. Thankfully, kindhearted bystanders rushed in to help, lifting the car off the victims before emergency services could arrive. This moment of bravery undoubtedly made a difference for those young men, who were in desperate need of assistance.

Fast forward to November 3, and Anaheim police were on the hunt for Ali. Their investigation led to his capture, and he was apprehended without incident. Now, Ali faces some serious charges, including felony hit-and-run and felony exhibition of speed. The police are urging anyone with information about the incident to reach out, as their investigation is still ongoing. Anyone who might know something is encouraged to call either the local police department or the Orange County Crime Stoppers hotline.

Street Takeovers: A Growing Concern

This hit-and-run occurred within the context of an organized street takeover event, a growing concern for police in Anaheim. These events can attract large crowds and often involve dangerous stunts, such as performing donuts in the street and even setting off fireworks. Although this particular gathering was festive, with many attendees dressed in Halloween attire, the reckless behaviors exhibited create a real risk for everyone involved.

Historically, Anaheim has struggled with street takeovers, witnessing about 1,700 incidents back in 2020. However, recent data shows a notable decrease, with approximately 720 incidents recorded so far in 2024. A city law that came into effect in 2021 gives police the ability to take action against spectators at illegal street takeovers, and it seems this may be helping curb the problem, even if just a little.

A Night to Forget

As the investigations continue, Anaheim police are reviewing social media posts and video evidence related to the street takeover, searching for answers and accountability. They are determined to address the issues around these events, while also emphasizing the need for community members to take responsibility for their actions. Reckless driving not only endangers those directly involved but can also have severe repercussions for innocent bystanders.

As Anaheim reflects on another chaotic street takeover, the hope is that residents will come together to discourage such dangerous gatherings and prioritize safety during future festivities. It’s a community that can thrive on fun while also ensuring that safety is the main priority—especially in a city that sees its fair share of street racing and reckless behavior.