Three Dead After Suspected Drunk Driver Ploughs Into Fourth of July Crowd in Manhattan
Tragedy struck Manhattan’s Fourth of July celebrations when a pickup truck barreled into Corlears Hook Park’s holiday crowd. Three people died and seven were injured in the horrific smash at around 8:55 PM Thursday.
Driver Races Through Intersection Before Hitting Families
Police say the driver, believed to be under the influence, was speeding east on Water Street. Witnesses report the Ford F-150 ran a stop sign, mounted the sidewalk, and smashed into the crowd enjoying the festivities on Manhattan’s Lower East Side beside the East River.
Chaos at the Park as Bystanders Stop Driver
Victims included families barbecuing and celebrating. Two are in critical condition, three more in serious condition, and three suffered lesser injuries. Fire Department officials said rescuers found the truck had struck at least four people.
NY Police Chief Jeff Maddrey: “The park was filled with families enjoying a peaceful evening. Responding officers detected the smell of alcohol on the driver, though tests are ongoing. Thankfully, quick-thinking bystanders prevented the driver from fleeing.”
Mayor Adams Vows Full Probe Into Deadly Incident
Mayor Eric Adams expressed shock at the tragedy. “Preliminary investigations suggest the driver was under the influence,” he said. “This is extremely early. We will conduct a thorough investigation to get to the bottom of this.”
The driver’s identity remains undisclosed. Authorities continue their investigation, extending condolences to the victims’ families as the city grapples with the aftermath of this preventable disaster.
