A 19-year-old who claimed to be pursuing a hit-and-run motorist plowed into a gathering, injuring two people, according to California police.
Brian Barbatajimaroa is facing four charges of assault with a deadly weapon after the incident on Saturday, March 1, according to a Redwood City Police Department news release.
The Redwood City homeowner contacted 911 at 10:06 p.m. to report chasing another car after a hit-and-run collision, according to police.
According to authorities, once dispatchers obtained the other driver’s license plate, they advised Barbatajimaroa to end the pursuit.
“Despite repeated instructions to stop following the suspect, the caller continued the pursuit, reaching excessive speeds and disregarding traffic signals and rules of the road,” prosecutors said.
When the second vehicle stopped near a swarm of pedestrians, Barbatajimaroa followed the driver into the crowd, “striking several individuals,” according to authorities.
Police reported that two persons were brought to the hospital with significant injuries.
Police are asking anyone with information to call 650-780-7100.
Reference: 19-year-old chasing hit-and-run driver slams into the crowd, hurting 2, California cops say
