A truck ploughed through a football pitch during a youth match in Kansas on Saturday afternoon, claiming two lives and leaving 11 others requiring hospital treatment, according to authorities. A 6-year-old boy and a 35-year-old man lost their lives in the incident, Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses confirmed.
Victims and injuries
Both victims were from the city of McPherson, though were unconnected to one another. Those injured ranged in age from 5 to 68, with five of the wounded being children, reports the Express. Capt Moses said: "Those injuries span from minor injuries, like bruises, to extremely severe injuries. But at this point, we believe those to be non-life-threatening."
Investigation and custody
A 34-year-old woman was taken into custody following the incident at the Stryker Sports Complex, Capt Moses confirmed. He stopped short of stating whether the act was believed to be deliberate. He said: "She has been cooperative up to this point in the investigation. We are still working to determine how this happened and why this happened." Two children were also present inside the truck, Capt Moses added.
Community response
Police Chief Joe Sullivan paid tribute to bystanders who swiftly assisted casualties in the aftermath. Prior to emergency services reaching the scene, members of the public "sprang into action" to deliver life-saving aid to those affected, he said. He explained: "It was truly amazing. But I think it's indicative of the Wichita community."
Mayor Lily Wu urged residents to steer clear of the area while investigations continued, describing the news as utterly heartbreaking. Writing on Facebook, she described the incident as leaving her "heartbroken", adding: "My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, especially the children and families involved." Officials confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the wider public.
