30 Injured When 73-Year-Old Crashes Truck Into Arizona Lodge

<br /> 30 Injured When 73-Year-Old Crashes Truck Into Arizona Lodge | Carscoops

Most were treated for minor injuries, but one individual remains in the hospital in critical but stable condition

                                        https://www.carscoops.com/author/bradcarscoops-com/

by Brad Anderson

September 10, 2024 at 12:29

Fortunately, no one was killed when the pickup smashed through a wall.
The driver, Thomas Edward Kain, is being held in jail in Pinal County.
Police and a local liquor licensing authority are investigating the crash.

An elderly pickup truck driver plowed into a lodge in Apache Junction, Arizona, injuring 30 people. One person remains in the hospital in critical but stable condition following the crash.

The accident happened on Saturday evening at Elks Lodge when 73-year-old Thomas Edward Kain got in his truck to leave the venue. However, he accidentally drove into the building, knocking down a wall and causing significant damage to the property.

Read: AI Will Soon Be Used To Monitor Elderly Drivers; Who’s Next?

Local police, fire crews, and ambulances responded to the scene. The Apache Junction Police say 10 individuals were transported to hospitals by ambulance while fifteen others received treatment for minor injuries at the scene. Authorities say at least another five people drove themselves to hospital for small injuries.

Police swiftly arrested Kain and stated that alcohol was a contributing factor to the crash. Those present at the scene were interviewed, and police are cooperating with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting a separate investigation into the incident.

NBC News says Kain was placed in custody in Pinal County.

“In response to the unfortunate incident at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge last night, we want to express our heartfelt sympathy and support for all those impacted,” Elks Lodge said in a Facebook post. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we want to recognize the tireless efforts of the first responders who assisted.” It has also established a crisis hotline for anyone who needs support.

The Apache Junction Police say this “accident shows just how dangerous it can be drink and drive,” noting that it reduces “your reaction time and decision-making skills.” It has called on locals to always plan ahead if you’ve been drinking, helping to avoid similar accidents in the future.