Man Arrested After Hitting High School Track Runners

A man from California was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon for allegedly driving into a group of high school track runners, sending eight teenagers to the hospital.

Anthony Alba-Palafox, 27, from Anaheim, is facing charges of DUI causing injury, according to jail records from the Anaheim Police Department (APD). He was arrested on suspicions of being under the influence of both alcohol and drugs.

The incident took place just before 3 p.m. when the group of eight track and field athletes from Anaheim High School was waiting at a red light during practice.

Alba-Palafox reportedly struck all eight students with his sedan.

Out of those injured, seven—consisting of a boy and a girl aged between 16 and 17—were transported to the hospital, where they are expected to recover. An adult coach was also with the group at the time.

Authorities have indicated that Alba-Palafox also sustained injuries and exhibited “objective signs of intoxication” when officers arrived on the scene.

Following the collision, the sedan was confiscated, and a search warrant is currently underway.

Anaheim High School released a statement via social media, indicating that they have been in touch with the families of the affected teens and plan to hold a crisis meeting to support student-athletes. The school expressed, “We ask for everyone’s thoughts and prayers as we overcome this unfortunate event. Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.”