Multiple people are dead and at least 20 are injured after an SUV drove through a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin
- A red SUV drove through a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, injuring at least 20 people.
- The Waukesha Police Department has recovered a vehicle suspected to be involved with the incident.
- An unknown number of victims have been transported to local hospitals.
During a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, a red SUV drove through barricades and barreled through the parade behind a school, resulting in at least one death and the injury of more than 20 individuals, NBC News 26 reported.
—Taylor Lumpkin (@TaylorLumpkinTV) November 22, 2021
A reporter on the scene said the crowd heard people being struck down by the vehicle, causing many attendees to run into nearby stores screaming and crying, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
"Today, our community faced horror and tragedy in what should have been a community celebration. I'm deeply saddened to know that so many in our community went to a parade but ended up dealing with injury and heartache," Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly, who walked in the parade, said during a press conference.
Waukesha Police Department Chief Dan Thompson said they have recovered a vehicle allegedly associated with the incident and have a person of interest in custody. He added that victims were transported to hospitals via ambulances, police officers, and family members.
Waukesha Fire Chief Steven Howard said his department and its partners transported 11 adults and 12 pediatric patients to six area hospitals, although no specifics were offered about the extent of their injuries. Both Thompson and Howard confirmed there were multiple fatalities but did not provide an official count because they are still in the process of contacting the families of the deceased.
When asked about reports of shots fired on the scene, Thompson said he does not believe any shots came from the suspect's vehicle and that an officer had opened fire in an attempt to stop the vehicle from leaving the scene.
A White House official told ABC News: "The White House is closely monitoring the situation in Waukesha and our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by this terrible incident. We have reached out to state and local officials to offer any support and assistance as needed."
The investigation is ongoing and the story will be updated as more information is released.
—David Kimball (@wxandnews) November 21, 2021