Police ID Suspect Charged In Block Party Crash That Injured 9
PHILADELPHIA (CBS/AP) — Police say a woman who tried to drive around a block party in Philadelphia and crashed into a crowd, injuring nine people including a pregnant woman, is facing a charge of driving under the influence.
The woman, who police identify as 22-year-old Monique McKnight, told officers that the brakes on her SUV failed Monday afternoon, causing her to hit the people.
Authorities said on Monday that McKnight drove around a parked unattended vehicle which was blocking the street while a block party was going on, and drove on the sidewalk striking nine pedestrians.
Video obtained by CBS3 shows the driver whip past a car blocking off the roadway.
It was a horrible scene. Tables setup, tents setup, people eating, rejoicing and all of a sudden a car comes barreling through a crowd. Bodies were laying everywhere, including Alfonzo Freeland's wife, Flor.
Freeland showed CBS3 his visitor badge having just returned from seeing her in the hospital.
"She's able to stand but she needs help, they have these things on her legs, not casts, but they have her hooked up so it helps both legs," he said.
Police say the victims were taken to area hospitals. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
But even with his wife and others expected to be in the hospital for a few days, Freeland says he doesn't harbor any hate toward the driver.
"I just hope the Lord helps that young lady who came through that barrier because she really needs help," he said.
Police say McKnight remained at the scene.
McKnight, who was operating a 2002 gold Chevy Trailblazerm was arrested and charged with nine counts of aggravated assault, driving under the influence and related offenses.
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