By A devastating incident unfolded during New York City’s July 4th celebrations as a suspected drunk driver crashed into a Manhattan park, resulting in at least three fatalities and injuries to six others, according to authorities.
The victims identified so far include 59-year-old Lucille Pickney and 38-year-old Hernan Pickney, residents of the neighborhood where the incident occurred. The identity of the third victim has not yet been disclosed.
The crash occurred shortly before 9 p.m. on Thursday in the Lower East Side, reported the New York City Police Department. NYPD Chief Jeffrey Maddrey, in a late-night briefing, explained that the driver of a Ford F-150 pickup truck was speeding down Water Street, ignored a stop sign at the intersection of Water and Cherry streets, veered onto the sidewalk, and collided with Corlears Hook Park. Nine people were struck in total, with four trapped underneath the vehicle. Tragically, two victims succumbed to their injuries on Thursday, while a third passed away overnight. At least one individual remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene amidst the festive atmosphere. Shantay Bracey, a longtime neighborhood resident, recounted initially mistaking the crash for preparations for a barbecue. She rushed to the scene upon realizing the severity of the situation, describing it as “melee” and “crazy.”
Chief Maddrey clarified that authorities are still determining the ages of the victims, noting that at least two children were among those transported to local hospitals for treatment.
In response to the incident, neighbors gathered early Friday morning to set up a memorial at the scene, leaving candles to honor the victims.
While authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, they suspect alcohol played a significant role in the crash. Mayor Eric Adams of New York City emphasized that the driver collided with individuals who were simply celebrating, like many others across the city and nation on Independence Day.
Responding officers detected the smell of alcohol at the scene, though formal testing is underway to confirm intoxication levels, according to Chief Maddrey. The New York City Fire Department responded swiftly, arriving within three-and-a-half minutes to lift the vehicle off the victims.
The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended with the assistance of bystanders at the scene who intervened to prevent the driver from fleeing until emergency responders arrived.
As of now, no charges have been filed in connection with the incident, pending further investigation.
cbsnews.com
