Former Los Angeles Lakers star and NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson was involved in a car accident on Monday evening after a driver allegedly ran a red light while using his phone, according to local authorities. Johnson, 66, was traveling with family members when his vehicle was struck at an intersection.
Details of the collision
Police said the crash occurred shortly after 7 p.m. at a busy Los Angeles intersection. Preliminary reports indicate that the other driver, whose name has not yet been released, failed to stop at a red light and collided with Johnson’s car. Investigators believe the driver was distracted by a mobile phone at the time of the incident.
Johnson’s vehicle sustained significant front-end damage, and airbags deployed on impact. Emergency services responded within minutes. Johnson was conscious when paramedics arrived and was assisted out of the car before being transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation.
His family members, who were also in the car, were examined by medical personnel at the scene. None of their injuries have been reported as life-threatening.
Medical update
Hospital officials confirmed that Johnson is in stable condition and undergoing routine observation. While he did not suffer life-threatening injuries, doctors are conducting precautionary tests due to his age and medical history.
A spokesperson for the Johnson family released a short statement late Monday night:
“We are grateful for the quick response of emergency personnel. Magic is stable and surrounded by his loved ones. We ask for privacy at this time.”
No further details were given about the extent of his injuries.
Reaction from the sports community
News of the accident quickly spread across social media, with fans and former teammates expressing concern and support. The Los Angeles Lakers organization released a message on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Our thoughts are with Magic Johnson and his family following tonight’s accident. We wish him a safe and speedy recovery.”
Several NBA players also posted supportive messages, calling Johnson not only a basketball icon but also an inspiration for his decades-long advocacy work.
Investigation underway
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the other vehicle was taken into custody for questioning. While no charges have been filed yet, officials say the use of a mobile phone while driving will be a central point of the investigation.
“Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in Los Angeles County,” a police spokesperson said. “This incident underscores the dangers of using mobile devices behind the wheel.”
A towering figure in sports and beyond
Magic Johnson, a five-time NBA champion and three-time league MVP, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in basketball history. After retiring in 1991 following his HIV diagnosis, Johnson became a prominent advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and later built a highly successful business empire.
Beyond his accomplishments on the court, Johnson’s work in health, community development, and business has made him one of the most respected figures in American public life. His presence at Lakers games, public appearances, and philanthropic activities continues to make headlines worldwide.
Public safety concerns
Road safety experts note that incidents like Johnson’s highlight the persistent risks associated with distracted driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 3,000 people in the United States were killed in 2022 in crashes involving distracted drivers.
“Every crash like this is preventable,” said one traffic safety analyst. “All it takes is one moment of inattention to cause irreversible harm.”
Looking ahead
As of Tuesday morning, Johnson remains in hospital but is expected to be released once doctors complete their evaluations. His representatives have promised to provide updates as his recovery progresses.
For fans, the relief is clear: one of basketball’s most cherished icons avoided a far more serious outcome.
