Alan Ruck’s recent crash might have had some immediately suspecting something like a DUI or a health issue. It may not be either. KTLA and TMZ are reporting that investigators now suspect Ruck’s Rivian as the cause for the crash.
The crash occurred on Halloween. Investigators and surveillance video show Ruck and his Rivian R1T at the intersection of Hollywood and La Brea. Witnesses say that the R1T suddenly lurched forward and hit the car in front of it. It then careened across lanes of traffic and hit another car before plowing into a pizza shop. Thankfully there were no serious injuries.
The LAPD said that Ruck cooperated with investigators and they quickly ruled out any kind of intoxication or criminal activity. Ruck told them that he honestly had no idea how the crash happened; witnesses on the scene backed him up. Now, sources close to the investigation told TMZ that officials are now thinking that the crash may have had something to do with the tech in his electric pickup.
Our sources also tell us the LAPD thinks this was just a mishap arising from the fact that Alan’s truck, a Rivian R1T, is brand-spanking new and super high-tech.
We have no idea if or how any of this played a part in Alan’s sitch — but it sounds like the police think he might’ve just been in over his head handling this machine … and that it just got away from him.
This explanation is obviously pretty silly and of course Rivian disagrees. In a statement to KTLA, the automaker said they found no malfunction with Ruck’s R1T.
Our internal examination found no indication of malfunction and that the vehicle performed as designed,” a spokesperson said. “We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement’s ongoing investigation of the incident.
Ultimately though it may not matter much longer. Sources tell TMZ investigators are wrapping up the case and are letting the insurance companies handle everything.