Gym-goer 'crashed car through fitness centre window after membership cancelled'

Video shows receptionist diving for safety as Honda ploughs into club

A driver crashed a stolen car through the front window of a fitness centre after his gym membership was cancelled, according to US police.

Security camera footage captured the moment an employee dived for safety as a Honda Accord ploughed into the reception desk.

The suspect fled the scene at Crunch Fitness in La Mirada, California, in another car but was arrested following a police chase.

Sergio Reyes, 32, from Whittier, was later charged with attempted murder.

“It appears that Reyes was a disgruntled former member of the fitness club,” said the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Employees at Crunch Fitness told ABC7 News the suspect had been a member of the gym for about three weeks before his membership was cancelled because of inappropriate behaviour.

Following an argument with staff he vowed to return.

In the early hours of 19 March witnesses heard the revving of an engine before the car smashed through the front window.

“A check of the compact vehicle that had crashed through the fitness club was a confirmed stolen vehicle reported out of Whittier just a few days prior,” said the County Sheriff’s Department.

“With that additional information, the suspect was also charged with driving a vehicle without owner’s consent. The getaway vehicle, a 2019 four-door Toyota Corolla, was registered to the arrested suspect.”

Reyes has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and will return to court next month.