At 12:49 PM on December 18, 2024, a police pursuit that began in Fullerton ended tragically at La Palma Avenue and Moody Street in La Palma. The victim, identified as 67-year-old Marianne Casey of La Palma, was pronounced dead at the scene after her BMW was struck by the suspect’s vehicle.
The chase began when a detective witnessed a theft near North Gilbert Street and West Malvern Avenue around 12:40 PM. The suspect, 43-year-old Anthony Hanzal of Anaheim, fled in a white Nissan Rogue, ignoring officers’ attempts to stop him. The pursuit continued across Fullerton, Buena Park, and La Palma, involving multiple agencies.
Hanzal’s vehicle collided with Casey’s car, killing her instantly. He and two other individuals involved in the crash were hospitalized. Hanzal, later arrested, remains in custody at Orange County Jail.
Hanzal has a history of prior offenses, including convictions for petty theft, drug-related charges, and possession of weapons. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the deadly crash.