Eight track athletes from Anaheim (Calif.) High School were struck by a vehicle last week while on a group run, and all were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
According to Runners’ World, the team was standing at the corner of an intersection, waiting for the light to turn, when a car veered off the road and drove through the intersection, hitting the students on the corner. Their coach was also with the group.
The driver, who was believed to be under the influence, was identified as 27-year-old Anthony Alva-Palofox. He was arrested and also taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Alva Palofox was later jailed, but he has since been bailed out.
Said the police in a statement following the incident, "There was probable cause to believe Mr. Alva-Palafox was operating a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner due to his level of intoxication. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI for both alcohol and drugs."
Related: High School Cross Country Athlete Hit by Truck During Practice
The student-athletes on the corner included members of both the girls’ and boys’ track team, and their ages ranged from 16 to 17. Five of the students have been released from the hospital at this time.
According to The LA Times, this incident is not the first time that high school track or cross country runners have been involved in an accident while out for a practice run. Distance runners at Sherman Oaks Notre Dame and Monroe High School have both been involved in similar accidents.
"We ask for your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this unfortunate event," school officials wrote. "Thank you for your cooperation and continued support."
