Family Dog in “Critical Condition” After Being Struck During Police Pursuit in South LA

Sparks flew and lookiloos gathered during the 30 minute chase in South LA.

A family dog was in critical condition Wednesday night after being struck during a harrowing 30-minute police chase that wound through streets in South LA and drew out lookiloos who gathered on street corners while the chase went down.

The pursuit ended after 9 p.m. with the driver and a female passenger in police custody. Police in riot gear formed a line in the street afterward to try to disperse the crowd.

The chase started about 8:30 p.m. with a report that the white Chevrolet Astro van may have been stolen.

The van jumped curbs onto sidewalks and circled at intersections, while groups of people gathered and raised their arms as the van passed.

The van drove mostly with its headlights out.

At one point, the driver of the van hit a dog that was running in the street. 

The dog, named Gordo, is a small, white poodle mix who lived with his family at a home on 87th Street in South LA. He was taken to a 24-hour animal hospital and was in critical condition as of Wednesday night. 

Hospital officials confirmed with NBC4 Thursday morning that the dog will have to do undergo surgery. One of the dog's hind legs may have to be amputated. 

For those who would like to donate to help with Gordo's recovery, visit the Access Specialty Animal Hospitals site and click on the link that says "Click here for Access Los Angeles payment" and pay via PayPal. 

Robert Kovacik and Samia Khan contributed to this report. 

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