In a tragic incident during Fourth of July celebrations, three people were killed and seven others injured when a driver suspected of being under the influence crashed into a holiday crowd at Corlears Hook Park in Manhattan. The incident occurred around 8:55 PM on Thursday, as families gathered to enjoy the evening festivities.

According to police, the driver of a pickup truck was “driving at a high rate of speed” when the vehicle ran through an intersection, mounted the sidewalk, and plowed into the crowd at the park. The driver’s reckless actions brought chaos to the peaceful celebration at the park, which is located on Manhattan’s Lower East Side next to the East River.

Among the injured, two victims were reported to be in critical condition, three were in serious condition, and three others sustained non-life-threatening injuries, officials said.

New York Police Chief of Department Jeff Maddrey described the scene at a news conference, noting that the park was filled with families barbecuing and enjoying the beautiful evening. It appears as though at this time, based on preliminary investigation, that the driver was under the influence,” Mayor Eric Adams said. “This is extremely early. We’re going to conduct a thorough investigation.”

Responding officers detected the smell of alcohol on the driver, though further testing is ongoing, Maddrey added. Fire Department Assistant Chief of Operations Michael Meyers said that when first responders arrived, they found the pickup truck on top of four victims. Quick-thinking bystanders apprehended the driver, ensuring he could not flee before authorities arrived.

The driver, who was behind the wheel of a Ford F-150, was speeding east on Water Street, ran through an intersection and a stop sign, then veered onto the sidewalk and into Corlears Hook Park, striking numerous people. The identity of the driver has not yet been disclosed.

As the investigation continues, Mayor Adams and other officials have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of the circumstances leading to this preventable tragedy.