Reported By Damola Emmanuel
There were multiple fatalities on Sunday night as a blue SUV plowed through a Christmas Holiday parade in the Wisconsin city of Waukesha, seriously injuring more than 20.
Initial Police reports said more than 20 people, at least 11 adults and 12 children were critically injured when the SUV driver tore through the celebratory parade, the first since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Footage of the horror showed several people lying on the ground, almost lifeless.
However, the authorities have confirmed five people dead while 40, including children, were being treated in various hospitals.
But they confirmed that they have recovered the suspected vehicle and a “person of interest” had been taken into custody.
The motive of the suspect was not known as at the time of this report. It was still hazy to know whether he was a lone wolf or he acted in concert with other persons in a terrorist act.
An unnamed official said the White House was monitoring the situation in Waukesha, Wisconsin, as a shocked world watched the tragedy live on global TV networks.
Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow said he was participating in the parade with his wife and noticed the police sirens. He said he later learned about the people who were injured.
Here is the full text of his statement:
“This is an unspeakable tragedy, affecting us all as we work to overcome an extremely challenging two years and resume our cherished holiday traditions. Keep the families affected in your thoughts as we work to offer whatever support we can. I have been in contact with Mayor Reilly and offered any resources the county could provide. I have also spoken with the Governor who offers his prayers and assistance. Right now, we are still learning about what happened. This is an active investigation, and all updates tonight will come from our law enforcement partners.
“I had just finished participating in the parade with my wife when I noticed police sirens. Shortly afterward, I learned that a vehicle drove through the parade route injuring many people. Please pray for our community tonight after the horrific events at the Waukesha Christmas Parade.”
Schools will be closed on Monday as a result of the monumental tragedy.