Police: Drunk Driver Hits Seven People On DSU Campus During Homecoming Event

DOVER, Del. (CBS) -- Police say seven people were injured when a drunk driver drove his car into a crowd on the campus of Delaware State University.

It happened around 7:30 p.m. Saturday during a homecoming event.

Authorities say 28-year-old Gregory Ligon of Mitchelville, Maryland – a former football players at Delaware State -- was attempting to park his car near the university's fraternity picnic area when he began exiting the vehicle while it was still in reverse.

Police say Ligon quickly jumped back into the driver's seat to stop the car, but pushed the gas pedal instead of the break.

Authorities say the car, with its driver side door open, accelerated over a curb and across a grassy area full of people, striking a 21-year-old woman and pinning her against a tree. She was rushed to Christiana Hospital in critical condition.

Six others were struck by the vehicle before finally came to a stop when the driver's side door broke off and it struck a tree. The victim;s ages range from 21-51.

All six victims were taken to Bayhealth Kent General Medical Center where they were treated for their injuries.

Ligon was arrested and charged with 1st and 2nd Degree Vehicular Assault, DUI and related offenses.

The university responded to the incident with the following statement:

"It was an unfortunate accident that took place on Saturday evening, and our thoughts and prayers are with the persons who were injured, especially the victim who suffered serious injuries in the incident. Our primary priority continues to be the safety of our students, employees and visitors.  Staff from Student Health Services stand ready to provide support to our students during this difficult time." 

Dover police are leading the investigation.

CBS 3' Steve Patterson contributed to this story...