TRAGEDY: Drunk Driver Plows Into Manhattan Park During 4th of July Celebrations, Killing Three – Latest Updates

New York City, New York – A tragic incident unfolded during the July 4th celebrations in Manhattan, resulting in three fatalities and six injured individuals. The horrific event took place late Thursday night when a suspected drunk driver crashed into a park in Lower East Side. Among the victims were Lucille Pinkney, aged 59, Hernan Pinkney, aged 38, and a third individual whose identity remains undisclosed.

The New York City Police Department reported that the collision occurred around 9 p.m. near the intersection of Water and Cherry streets. Chief Jeffrey Maddrey stated that a Ford F-150 pickup truck was speeding down Water Street, disregarded a stop sign, veered onto the sidewalk, and plowed into Corlears Hook Park. As a result, nine people were struck, with four of them becoming trapped beneath the vehicle. Tragically, two individuals succumbed to their injuries on Thursday, while another passed away overnight. Currently, one person remains in critical condition at a local hospital.

Eyewitnesses described the chaos that ensued, with one resident, Shantay Bracey, recounting the confusion and panic that followed the crash. Neighbors gathered at the scene early Friday morning to set up a memorial, offering candles in honor of the victims. While authorities ruled out terrorism as a motive, they suspect alcohol played a role in the incident.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences, emphasizing that the tragedy occurred as people were partaking in Independence Day festivities. Maddrey confirmed that while responding officers detected the smell of alcohol at the scene, further testing is underway. The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended with the assistance of bystanders. Despite the swift response from the New York City Fire Department, no charges have been filed at present.

While details about the victims are still being determined, the community and authorities mourn the loss of life and work towards understanding the circumstances surrounding the devastating crash. The investigation continues as New Yorkers come to terms with the aftermath of the July 4th celebration turned into a scene of tragedy in Lower East Side.