An 81-year-old woman had both legs amputated after an SUV crashed into an outdoor dining area in Los Angeles on July 7, according to surveillance footage and police reports.
Cristina Vargas was eating lunch with her daughter, Gabriela Vargas, and a male friend at Los Cinco Puntos in Boyle Heights when the vehicle veered onto the sidewalk at approximately 3:30 p.m., striking the group. The impact sent patrons, furniture, and other items flying, with screeching tires heard just before the collision. Surveillance video obtained by KTLA shows the SUV accelerating onto the sidewalk before hitting the table where Vargas was seated.
Vargas’ lower body was pinned under the vehicle, and she underwent three surgeries before doctors amputated both legs. Gabriela Vargas suffered a head injury and a deep laceration to her knee, while the male friend sustained unspecified injuries. All three were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Gabriela and the male friend have since recovered, but Vargas remains hospitalized, undergoing physical therapy at a rehabilitation center with plans to return home soon.
Vargas, a widowed mother of two, described the moment of impact to KTLA: “I remember I just heard screeching and I was lifting up my head and I just saw headlights and a bumper and I heard a big boom. The next thing I knew, I was airborne.” Gabriela recounted a similar experience, stating she was lifted off the ground during the crash. Vargas has expressed gratitude for surviving and maintaining a positive outlook despite her injuries.
Police have alleged the driver was impaired at the time of the crash, though no charges have been filed as of this report. The driver, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, remains under investigation. Authorities have not confirmed whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and the case is ongoing.
The incident has drawn attention to pedestrian safety measures in outdoor dining areas, particularly in urban settings. Los Cinco Puntos, a popular local restaurant, has not issued a public statement regarding the crash or its aftermath. Vargas’ family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to support her medical expenses and long-term care needs.
Vargas’ daughter, Gabriela, has vowed to provide her mother with the best possible care moving forward. “My goal is to give her the best quality of care from here on out,” she told reporters. Vargas’ family and friends have rallied around her during her recovery, expressing hope for her rehabilitation and eventual return home.