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A man from California has been taken into custody following an incident where he allegedly struck a group of high school track athletes on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in eight teenagers being hospitalized.
Anthony Alva-Palafox, a 27-year-old resident of Anaheim, faces charges related to driving under the influence and causing injury, as detailed in the Anaheim Police Department (APD) jail records. Authorities suspect him of DUI involving both alcohol and drugs.
The collision occurred shortly before 3 p.m. when eight track runners from Anaheim High School were halted at a red light during their practice session, stated the APD.
Alva-Palafox has been accused of driving his sedan into all eight students.

He faces allegations of striking the group of high school track athletes with his vehicle in California.
APD said seven of the eight children, who were males and females ages 16 to 17, were taken to the hospital and are expected to survive.
They were accompanied by their adult coach.

A large police response was spotted at the scene. (KTTV)
Investigators said Alva-Palafox was also taken to the hospital with injuries and showed “objective signs of intoxication” at the scene.
The sedan was impounded, and a search warrant is in progress.

Police said eight children were injured and seven were taken to the hospital after the Anaheim crash. (KTTV)
Anaheim High School released a statement on social media noting it has been in contact with the teens’ families and will be hosting a crisis response meeting with student athletes to provide support.
“We ask for your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this unfortunate event,” school officials wrote. “Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.”