A truck drove through a football pitch during a youth game in Kansas on Saturday afternoon, leaving two people dead and 11 more needing hospital treatment, authorities said.
A 6-year-old boy and a 35-year-old man tragically died in the incident, Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses said. Both fatalities were from the city of McPherson, but were not related to each other. The ages of the people injured ranged from 5 to 68, with five of those wounded being children.
Injuries and Custody
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."
A 34-year-old woman was in custody following the incident at the Stryker Sports Complex, Capt Moses said. He did not say whether authorities believe it was intentional. 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 in the truck, Capt Moses added.
Bystanders Praised
Police Chief Joe Sullivan praised bystanders for quickly helping casualties following the incident. Before first responders arrived at the scene, people "sprang into action" to provide lifesaving assistance to the victims, he said. He explained: "It was truly amazing. But I think it’s indicative of the Wichita community."
Mayor Lily Wu advised people to avoid the area during the investigation and said the news was heartbreaking. She said on Facebook the incident had left her "heartbroken", adding: "My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, especially the children and families involved."
Authorities said there was no further public threat.
