30 hurt as drunk driver crashes into packed Arizona restaurant
A quiet Saturday evening at an Elks Lodge restaurant in Apache Junction, Arizona, took a tragic turn when a suspected drunk driver crashed his pickup truck into the packed establishment. As a result, injuring 30 people. Authorities say the driver, 73-year-old Thomas Kain, was arrested following the incident, which left the community reeling from what could have been an even worse disaster.
The crash occurred around 7:30 p.m., and police suspect Kain was under the influence at the time. As the investigation unfolds, the city and local authorities have urged residents to be vigilant about the dangers of drinking and driving. Thus, emphasizing that the consequences could have been fatal.
Details of the Incident
According to Officer Darrin Hatch of the Apache Junction Police Department, authorities received a frantic 911 call from a patron inside the restaurant shortly after the crash. Kain had been at the bar earlier in the evening before getting into his Ford pickup truck and slamming into the front of the building. The Elks Lodge was busy, filled with patrons enjoying their weekend. So, they were unaware of the chaos that was about to unfold.
Surveillance footage of the incident, reviewed by local police, captured the moments leading up to the crash. The video shows the restaurant packed with patrons as Kain’s truck barreled into the building, causing a scene of confusion and terror. “It looks like it was a pretty chaotic scene,” Hatch said in a statement to AZ Family. “I can only imagine. I did see surveillance video of the scene, and it looked pretty packed in there when the incident occurred.”
Extent of the Injuries
In total, 30 people were injured in the crash. Emergency responders were quick to arrive on the scene, treating victims both inside and outside the restaurant. Authorities confirmed that 10 individuals were hospitalized. One victim is in critical but stable condition. Fifteen others were treated at the scene for non-life-threatening injuries. Meanwhile five people, suffering from minor injuries such as deep cuts and fractures, drove themselves to local hospitals for treatment.
Many of the victims were older adults, according to police. However, their exact ages have not yet been released. The injuries varied in severity, from lacerations to broken bones. Thankfully, none of the victims’ lives are currently in danger. “I haven’t seen anything like this here in Apache Junction,” Hatch added. “I’m just grateful that nobody is seriously hurt, where life-threatening injuries are involved, because that’s one of my biggest concerns when I get to scenes like this.”
Authorities’ Response and Investigation
Thomas Kain was arrested at the scene, and police are investigating the incident as a suspected DUI. While the charges he may face have not been officially announced, authorities are focusing on whether he was intoxicated at the time of the crash. Hatch explained that a full investigation is underway to determine Kain’s blood alcohol content (BAC). Also, they’re investigating whether he had consumed any other substances before the crash.
Additionally, the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control is conducting a separate investigation into how alcohol was served to Kain prior to the crash. Under state law, establishments that serve alcohol are required to follow strict guidelines. Especially when serving potentially intoxicated patrons, the guidelines are strict. The Elks Lodge may face consequences if it is found to have violated those guidelines.
In the meantime, the Apache Junction Police Department is urging the public to take the dangers of drunk driving seriously. “We are grateful that there were no fatalities, and this story could have ended very differently,” authorities stated. “We want everyone to remember that drunk driving can have serious consequences, not just for the driver but for everyone around them.”
Dangers of Drunk Driving
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of drunk driving. In Arizona and across the nation, drunk driving is a problem. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 30 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes every day, or one person every 50 minutes. Drunk driving remains one of the most preventable causes of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road. Yet, it continues to claim thousands of lives each year.
In Arizona, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, even drivers with lower BAC levels can still face penalties if their ability to drive is impaired. Those caught driving under the influence in Arizona can face steep fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. In more severe cases, such as the crash involving Kain, drivers can face felony charges and extended prison sentences.
Authorities stress the importance of designating a sober driver or using a ride-sharing service when consuming alcohol. “This crash is a stark reminder that drunk driving is not just a personal risk,” an Arizona law enforcement official commented. “It endangers everyone on the road and can have devastating consequences for innocent bystanders.”
Community Impact and Support
The crash has shaken the community of Apache Junction, a small but tight-knit city located in the Phoenix metropolitan area. In the days following the incident, the City of Apache Junction issued a public statement expressing concern for the victims. Additionally, the statement expressed appreciation for the first responders who quickly acted to help those injured.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this incident,” the statement read. “We extend our deepest concern and support to the victims and their families and want to acknowledge our first responders who are working tirelessly to support them during this time.”
While the Elks Lodge has temporarily closed its doors following the crash, community members have expressed support for the injured and their families. Several fundraisers have already been launched to assist those who are facing medical expenses and other hardships in the aftermath of the crash. Local businesses have also stepped forward to offer their assistance in helping the restaurant rebuild.
Conclusion/Call for Awareness
The crash at the Arizona restaurant serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of drinking and driving. While no lives were lost, the incident could have ended much more tragically. However, the quick actions of first responders and the fortunate circumstances allowed victims to avoid life-threatening injuries.
As the investigation into Thomas Kain’s actions continues, the community of Apache Junction is focused on supporting the victims and raising awareness about the importance of preventing drunk driving. Law enforcement officials are urging drivers to take precautions, be responsible, and avoid making the deadly mistake of driving under the influence.
Source: WLBT
