The Waukesha Police Department in Wisconsin reported that five people were killed and more than 40 others were injured after a speeding vehicle crashed into a Christmas parade in the area on Sunday. The Waukesha Police confirmed via a statement on their Facebook page, "We confirm the death of 5 individuals and the injury of 40. However, these numbers may change as we gather additional information," according to AFP. The Waukesha Police mentioned that a suspect has been taken into custody for questioning.
The incident occurred on Sunday at 10:30 PM GMT in Waukesha, where an annual Christmas parade was taking place. Police Chief Dan Thompson stated during a press conference, "The Christmas parade in Waukesha was ongoing when an SUV breached the barriers from the west heading toward Main Street," according to AFP. He added, "The vehicle struck over 20 people, including children, and there are also injuries due to the incident." Chief Thompson had previously indicated there were "fatalities," while local officials also noted that 11 adults and 12 children were transported to hospitals.
In a video shared on social media, it appeared that the red vehicle was speeding toward the crowd, as police fired at it while it crashed through the street barriers. Thompson noted that police located the vehicle and the person suspected of being involved in the incident. An eyewitness reported, "We saw an SUV... at full speed along the street. After that, we heard a loud bang and deafening screams from people struck by the vehicle."