OAKLAND, Calif. — Two young boys who authorities said took their parents' car without permission critically injured a woman walking her dog after crashing into multiple vehicles in East Oakland, police said, in an incident that remained under investigation on Friday.
The collision occurred at about 9:30 a.m. Thursday near the intersection of 35th Avenue and Mangels Avenue, according to Oakland police. Investigators said the children, both under the age of 10, were inside a white Toyota Camry that had been driven away from their family's home before the vehicle struck another car, hit the pedestrian and then crashed into a wall and fence.
The injured woman was taken to a hospital in critical condition, authorities said. The children, along with the driver of the other vehicle involved in the crash, were also transported to hospitals for treatment. Police did not immediately release details on the children's injuries.
Authorities said the woman's dog was recovered after the crash.
Oakland police said preliminary findings indicated the children had taken the vehicle without their parents' permission. Investigators have not released the boys' identities because they are minors.
Police said the circumstances surrounding how the children gained access to the vehicle remain under review. Officials have not announced whether any criminal or civil action could result from the incident.
Investigators said there was no immediate indication that alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. The cause of the collision has not been determined.
The parents are cooperating with investigators, police said.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as emergency responders treated the injured and closed portions of the roadway while investigators documented evidence. Authorities asked anyone who witnessed the collision or who has surveillance or dashcam footage to contact Oakland police.
The case has drawn attention because of the ages of the children involved. However, police emphasized that the investigation is continuing and urged the public not to speculate about the circumstances until the inquiry is complete.
As of Friday, the pedestrian remained hospitalized in critical condition, according to authorities. Oakland police said the investigation into the crash was ongoing and that additional information would be released as it becomes available.
