Fernando Ramirez Identified as Driver in East Hollywood Nightclub Attack That Injured 30

The vibrant streets of East Hollywood turned chaotic in the early hours of July 19, 2025, when a Nissan Versa sedan plowed into a crowd outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub. Police have now identified the driver as 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez, who allegedly carried out the intentional attack after being ejected from the venue for intoxication and disruptive behavior. The shocking Fernando Ramirez East Hollywood attack left approximately 30 people injured, seven critically, transforming a lively night into a scene of trauma and unanswered questions.

The East Hollywood Nightclub Attack: Timeline and Aftermath

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the incident unfolded around 2 a.m. as patrons gathered outside The Vermont Hollywood for valet services, food from nearby taco stands, and rideshares. Witnesses described a dark-colored Nissan Versa accelerating onto the sidewalk, striking pedestrians and colliding with a valet podium and taco stand. Over 100 firefighters and emergency personnel responded to the chaotic scene on Vermont Avenue near Sunset Boulevard.

Commander Lillian Carranza confirmed that Ramirez had been forcibly removed from the nightclub earlier that evening due to extreme intoxication and belligerent conduct. Security footage reviewed by investigators showed Ramirez returning approximately 30 minutes after his ejection, deliberately steering his vehicle into the crowd. “When he hit bystanders, it was an intentional act,” stated Captain Ben Fernandes during a press briefing. The LAPD has ruled out terrorism but emphasized the attack’s premeditated nature.

Victims suffered fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries. As of July 21, five individuals remain in critical condition at local hospitals. The nightclub sustained no structural damage, but community members have left flowers and candles at a makeshift memorial near the entrance.

Fernando Ramirez: Profile and Legal Status

Little is known about Fernando Ramirez beyond his age and residency in Los Angeles County. Public records indicate no prior felony convictions, though LAPD sources suggest a history of misdemeanor disturbances. Following the attack, enraged bystanders dragged Ramirez from his vehicle and assaulted him. During the altercation, an unidentified gunman shot Ramirez before fleeing on foot.

Ramirez underwent emergency surgery for his gunshot wound and remains hospitalized under police guard. He has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon (his vehicle) but has not yet been formally booked due to his medical condition. The LAPD confirms he is “in custody” and not free to leave. Court records show no legal representation has been listed for Ramirez as of this reporting.

LAPD Manhunt for Shooter and Investigation Updates

While Ramirez faces charges, police are actively searching for the bystander who shot him during the confrontation. The suspected shooter is described as a bald Hispanic male, approximately 5’9”, wearing a blue jersey and armed with a silver revolver. Authorities urge witnesses or individuals with cellphone footage to contact the LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division at [phone].

Key evidence includes:

• Surveillance videos from The Vermont Hollywood and adjacent businesses
• Social media posts from patrons capturing the attack’s immediate aftermath
• Forensic analysis of the Nissan Versa for mechanical issues or accelerant residues

The LAPD has partnered with the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office to analyze digital evidence. No motive beyond Ramirez’s intoxication and prior ejection has been established.

Community Trauma and Safety Measures

Local businesses and residents describe ongoing anxiety following the Fernando Ramirez East Hollywood attack. The Vermont Hollywood has suspended operations indefinitely and increased coordination with LAPD’s Hollywood Division for future security plans. City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez announced proposed ordinances to enhance sidewalk barriers and valet-zone protocols near nightlife districts.

Victim advocacy groups like Peace Over Violence are providing free counseling to survivors. “This wasn’t an accident—it was violence using a car as a weapon,” stated executive director Patti Giggans. A GoFundMe campaign for medical expenses has raised over $120,000.

The Fernando Ramirez East Hollywood attack underscores how quickly a night of revelry can descend into tragedy, leaving dozens injured and a community seeking answers. As Ramirez awaits trial and the shooter remains at large, authorities urge anyone with information about this deliberate act of vehicular violence to contact LAPD immediately. Collective vigilance remains our strongest shield against such senseless acts.

Must Know

Who is Fernando Ramirez?
Fernando Ramirez is the 29-year-old driver identified by LAPD as responsible for intentionally driving his Nissan Versa into a crowd outside The Vermont Hollywood nightclub in East Hollywood on July 19, 2025. He was hospitalized after being shot by a bystander during the attack and faces assault charges.

How many people were injured?
Approximately 30 people were injured, with seven initially in critical condition. Victims included nightclub patrons, valet staff, and taco stand customers. Five remained hospitalized in critical condition as of July 21.

Was the crash intentional?
Yes. LAPD confirmed Ramirez’s actions were deliberate based on security footage and witness accounts. He had been ejected from the venue earlier for intoxication and returned to target the crowd.

Is Fernando Ramirez in custody?
Ramirez is under police guard at a hospital, where he underwent surgery for a gunshot wound sustained during the attack. The LAPD states he is in official custody and unable to leave medical care.

Who shot Fernando Ramirez?
An unidentified bystander shot Ramirez after pulling him from his car. The shooter is described as a bald Hispanic male around 5’9” in a blue jersey, armed with a silver revolver. He fled on foot and remains at large.

How can I help the investigation?
Contact LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division at [phone] or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS with any information, photos, or videos related to the attack or shooter.