A protester in Riverside is fighting for her life after a shocking hit-and-run incident during a demonstration against Donald Trump. The victim, 21-year-old Alexa Carrasco, was struck by an SUV that careened into a crowd of peaceful protesters, leaving her in a medically induced coma. Eyewitnesses describe the harrowing scene as chaos erupted on University Avenue near Orange Street, where Carrasco was protesting alongside friends and family.
“It all happened so quickly,” said Minor Garcia, a friend of Carrasco, who witnessed the horrific event unfold. “The driver made an illegal U-turn, trying to provoke us. We were just standing on the sidewalk, and then suddenly, the car plowed into the crowd.” Panic ensued as bystanders rushed to help Carrasco, who suffered multiple severe injuries, including a punctured lung, broken ribs, and a fractured skull.
As police launch a manhunt for the driver, they are reviewing security camera footage for leads. Authorities have classified the incident as a felony hit-and-run, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward. “Just seeing her like this is terrible,” Garcia lamented. “She’s the most lively, talkative person. We were just celebrating her 21st birthday.”
The community is reeling from the violence, especially in light of recent tensions surrounding ICE raids at local church grounds. As friends and family gather to pray for Carrasco’s recovery, the urgency for justice grows. This tragic event has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, as the hunt for the driver intensifies. The Riverside Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating the suspect, whose identity remains unknown. The situation is fluid, and updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.