Just before 6pm, a black Chevrolet Silverado, traveling north on South Coast Highway 101, rear-ended another vehicle near D Street, then veered into the ice cream shop at 480 S. Coast Hwy 101. The force of impact sent the truck into the building, scattering glass and debris across the sidewalk and roadway.
Witnesses say a family was seated outside when the vehicle careened into the storefront. A child was struck, pinned momentarily under the truck, and later freed by first responders using the Jaws of Life. He was immediately airlifted to Rady Children’s Hospital with what authorities describe as serious - but non-life-threatening - injuries (a broken arm and scratches have been reported).
Witnesses say a family was seated outside when the vehicle careened into the storefront. A child was struck, pinned momentarily under the truck, and later freed by first responders using the Jaws of Life. He was immediately airlifted to Rady Children’s Hospital with what authorities describe as serious - but non-life-threatening - injuries (a broken arm and scratches have been reported).
The driver, identified as 64-year-old Edward De La Torre, was also transported to a hospital and later detained on suspicion of driving under the influence. Those in the Prius rear-ended by De La Torre appear uninjured, per official statements.
Law enforcement and structural engineers remained on scene late into the night. The Silverado is expected to remain inside the building overnight while safety and structural assessments are completed. Deputies will maintain a presence until the vehicle can be safely removed. A building inspector was also called in to evaluate the integrity of the damaged storefront. The investigation is ongoing.
Locals say coverage and social media are already buzzing. One post from @encinitaskeepinitreal identified the child as a 9-year-old boy named "River," noting that bystanders and emergency crews worked together to free him. “Broken bones — on the long road to healing,” the post said, asking for community support and prayers.
This is a developing story and will be updated as new information becomes available.
Law enforcement and structural engineers remained on scene late into the night. The Silverado is expected to remain inside the building overnight while safety and structural assessments are completed. Deputies will maintain a presence until the vehicle can be safely removed. A building inspector was also called in to evaluate the integrity of the damaged storefront. The investigation is ongoing.
Locals say coverage and social media are already buzzing. One post from @encinitaskeepinitreal identified the child as a 9-year-old boy named "River," noting that bystanders and emergency crews worked together to free him. “Broken bones — on the long road to healing,” the post said, asking for community support and prayers.
This is a developing story and will be updated as new information becomes available.
Originally published on October 8, 2025.
