Anaheim Crash Shuts Down High School Track Team; Driver Arrested, Bail Posted

At just before 3 p.m. on a sunny Thursday in Anaheim, a sudden collision shattered a routine training run for the Anaheim High School track and field team.

An orange Toyota Corolla, driven by 27‑year‑old Anthony Alva‑Palafox, veered off Harbor Boulevard at North Street, striking several students and other pedestrians on the southwest corner of the intersection.

The vehicle came to a stop facing a wall in front of a home’s yard, according to the preliminary investigation released by Anaheim police. The car was traveling southbound on a green light when the driver lost control.

Eight people sustained injuries in the impact, including seven students aged 16 and 17 who were accompanied by their coach during the run. None of the injuries were deemed life‑threatening, and the school confirmed that all students were stable.

Seven of the injured students were hospitalized, but by Thursday morning four of those seven had been discharged and were beginning recovery at home. The remaining three are still receiving care in the hospital.

Alva‑Palafox was arrested on Wednesday evening after the crash and was charged with suspicion of driving under the influence. He was released from custody Thursday following the posting of a $100,000 bail.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the bail amount was paid and that the defendant was freed on Thursday. No additional charges were announced at the time of the release.

Following the incident, Anaheim High School’s principal announced that the school would reassess its training routes to enhance safety for future events. The principal also emphasized that the injuries were not life‑threatening.

While some students have returned home and are recuperating, others remain under medical observation. The school has coordinated with local health authorities to monitor the students’ recovery.

ANAHEIM POLICE: ‘The preliminary investigation has revealed that an orange Toyota Corolla was traveling southbound on Harbor Blvd at North St on a green light when the driver veered off the roadway and struck several pedestrians who were standing on the southwest corner,’ Anaheim police said in a statement.

The coach, who was present during the run, expressed gratitude for the swift medical response and noted that the students were physically and emotionally shaken but are receiving support.

Local residents and community members have offered condolences and support to the affected families. The incident has prompted discussions about road safety and the importance of safe training routes for student athletes.

• Seven Anaheim High School students were injured, with four discharged by Thursday.
• The driver, Anthony Alva‑Palafox, was arrested on suspicion of DUI and posted $100,000 bail.
• Anaheim police confirmed the vehicle’s loss of control on a green light; the school is reassessing training routes.

The crash has left the Anaheim community shaken, but the prompt response by police, medical staff, and school officials has helped mitigate further harm. Officials will continue to monitor the students’ recovery and review safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.