Thirty people were injured after a suspected drunk driver crashed his truck into a crowded bar in Arizona, sending patrons flying and leaving a trail of destruction.
Thomas Edward Kain, 73, was attempting to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction around 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 7 when he crashed into the building.
The shocking moment was captured on video, showing how the truck completely entered the building after breaking through its wall.
Miraculously there were no deaths.
Thomas Edward Kain, 73, drove straight through a crowded bar in Arizona and was charged with driving under the influence.
Ten of the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries, including fractures and deep cuts, police said. One person was in critical condition but in a coma.
Fifteen other people were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Five others were taken to hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Kain was charged with driving under the influence, 12 counts of aggravated assault and 17 counts of endangering others.
The driver was attempting to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction when he crashed into the building.
Moments before the accident, people were seen mingling inside the bar.
The shocking moment was captured on video, which shows the truck driving straight into the building.
Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine Kain’s level of impairment.
Police said additional charges could be filed.
The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation.
Police have issued a warning urging community members to make responsible decisions.
Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine Kain’s level of impairment. Police said additional charges could be filed.
The Elks Lodge is located in the Phoenix suburb of Apache Junction.
The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation.
“Let this serve as a reminder: Drinking and driving is not worth the risk. Your choices can save lives,” the statement said.
The leading cause of death on Arizona roads is drunk and drug-impaired driving. Thirty-five percent of all traffic-related deaths in the state were alcohol-related, which exceeds the national average of 32 percent, according to a 2023 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The Apache Junction Police Department added: “We are fortunate that despite the severity of this incident, no lives were lost. However, the outcome could have been much worse.”
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