One Killed Dozens Injured in Las Vegas Trip Sidewalk Crash

A woman identified as 24-year-old Lakeisha Holloway repeatedly plowed into pedestrians on the crowded Las Vegas Strip the night of December 20, 2015, killing one person and injuring dozens more including six critically. According to an NBC News report, Holloway, an Oregon resident, was with a toddler in her vehicle when officials say she intentionally rammed into pedestrians on the sidewalk. She will be charged with one count of murder with a deadly weapon. She is also facing potential attempted murder and child abuse and neglect charges. The person killed in the crash has been identified as 32-year-old Jessica Valenzuela of Buckey, Arizona.

Tragic Crash

Police said the driver in a 1996 Oldsmobile swerved onto the sidewalk two or three times on the Stop near the Paris Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood hotels. The driver then took off and was later found parked near another hotel. Six of the injured were transported to area hospitals in critical condition. As of Monday morning, all were said to be in stable condition. In all, 26 people were transported to three hospitals. Four of the injured were members of the Pacific University’s men’s wrestling team from Oregon some of whom were in Las Vegas for a competition.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Jessica Valenzuela who was killed in this crash. We also wish the other injured victims the very best for a quick and full recovery.

Ongoing Investigation

Based on this news report, police are saying that Holloway intentionally plowed into the crowded sidewalk in the Las Vegas Strip. They have ruled out terrorism but have charged Holloway with one count of murder. It is likely that she’ll face attempted murder charges. The charges will likely depend on the woman’s mental state and her motive for striking groups of innocent people who were probably just having a good time and enjoying a weekend close to the holidays in one of the major entertainment venues in the world.

As personal injury lawyers, we know first-hand the devastation such a traumatic event can cause. A number of the victims or even those who witnessed it may need counseling to process what they saw and experienced. It is important that those who were injured truly understand their legal rights and options, given the circumstances of this incident. It is important they have the resources, guidance, and support they need during such a crucial time.