Driver strikes tree, hits downtown Berkeley building
The incident took place at 12:35 p.m. at Shattuck Avenue and Bancroft Way, just south of the old Regal UA movie theater.
Two women were taken to the hospital Sunday after crashing into a building on Shattuck Avenue, likely taking out a tree, authorities report.
The collision in downtown Berkeley caused only minor damage to the building, Battalion Chief DeJuan Turner, with the Berkeley Fire Department, said.
The incident took place at 12:35 p.m. on Shattuck Avenue at Bancroft Way, just south of the old Regal UA movie theater, which closed in February 2023 pending demolition for housing.
The damaged tree and minor building damage after Sunday's crash. Scanner Insider
The cause of Sunday's crash may have been medical, with unconfirmed reports from the scene that the driver lost consciousness just before the collision.
Berkeley police and firefighters responded.
The driver, a 70-year-old woman, and her 31-year-old passenger, were taken to the hospital for assessment, but it was largely precautionary, authorities said.
The city's forestry division is expected to assess the damaged tree.
Turner said BFD would contact the building owner, but did not anticipate structural concerns.
Given the limited space in the parking area, "you can't go too fast," he added.
The commercial storefront the driver struck is vacant, although a boba cafe called "THub" has announced plans to move in.
Prior tenants on the block have included Build Pizzeria and Western Pacific, which closed in 2020.
