Teen dead, 22 injured as car rams Times Square pedestrians
An 18-year-old tourist has been killed and 22 injured after an ex-naval officer mounted a footpath in New York’s iconic Times Square.
Alyssa Elsman from Michigan was visiting New York with her family when the alleged driver, Richard Rojas, flipped his 2009 Honda Accord and burst into flames.
The 26-year-old driver was seen screaming as he ran from the car before an NYPD officer and multiple bystanders tackled him to the ground.
While police shut down immediate claims of terrorism, witnesses said the act was intentional.
"He was aiming for people," Witness Cheryl Howard said.
"It hit everybody on the block...Having almost been hit, I was pretty scared," Michael Ellis added.
At least one person was killed and thirteen people were injured when a car crashed into pedestrians on a sidwalk in New York.
Alyssa Elsman was visiting from Michigan when she was killed by the out-of-control car. Source: Facebook
Another witness, who would only identify himself as Andrew, said the driver was "aiming for as many people as he could possibly get. ... It was very bloody, very disturbing."
Shocking images showed bystanders rushing to the aid of those injured in the horrific crash.
Police cordoned off an area from 41st to 47th streets and from 6th to 8th avenues, effectively shutting down one of the busiest parts of one of the busiest cities in the world.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio told reporters there was no indication it was an act of terrorism and that the driver had two previous arrests for drunk driving.
Shocking images showed bystanders rushing to the aid of those injured in the horrific crash.
At least 22 pedestrians were injured when the car flipped over the footpath. Source: AFP
Local law enforcement reiterated the mayor's message, saying the driver appeared to have been either drunk or on drugs.
Witnesses said the motorist had driven against traffic and onto the sidewalk, striking pedestrians.
The car crashed into a pole and came to rest at 45th Street and Broadway.
Authorities have said the incident does not appear to be terror related.
Seven people were being placed on stretchers, a witness said.
Shoes were scattered at the scene and one person was covered by a bloodstained blanket, another witness said.
