Multiple people were rushed to the hospital Tuesday afternoon after a box truck lost control on a busy Boston street, plowing into a storefront in the city’s Chinatown neighborhood.
The terrifying lunchtime crash left at least six people injured, including one person fighting for their life. Horrifying footage from the scene showed pedestrians lying on the sidewalk, surrounded by shattered glass and debris.
The yellow Penske box truck was overturned on its side when emergency responders arrived. The truck’s driver was trapped inside and had to be rescued by the Boston Fire Department.
“The technical team had to cut the top of the cab and peel it back to get the driver out,” said Deputy Fire Chief Steven Shaffer. The driver, initially reported in critical condition, is now stable and receiving treatment.
At least one victim remains in critical condition, while three others were hospitalized with minor injuries. Two additional victims were treated at the scene, according to local ABC affiliate WCVB.
Eyewitnesses described the chaos as first responders used extrication tools to free the driver and assist injured pedestrians. Onlookers captured footage showing police officers urging bystanders to clear the area as medical teams attended to the wounded.
A ramen restaurant was damaged in the crash, and a fire hydrant was knocked into the street. The Boston Fire Department stated, “Companies responded to Kneeland & Harrison Ave for a truck that struck multiple poles and was wedged between a pole and the building.”
One witness told reporters, “He lost control right down this road… He was going pretty fast, but I don’t know if he was speeding.”
Penske Transportation Solutions confirmed the truck was rented to a commercial trucking company. “Our thoughts are with those who have been injured in this unfortunate incident. We are cooperating fully with authorities to support their investigation,” said Alen Beljin, Senior Public Relations Manager at Penske.
Tufts Medical Center activated its mass casualty response after the crash. Authorities do not believe the incident was suspicious or intentional, but the investigation is ongoing.
The involved streets remain closed, and drivers are being urged to avoid the area. Officials are working to determine the cause of the crash and identify any liable parties.
