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The joyous atmosphere of the Bakersfield Christmas Parade was abruptly shattered on Thursday, December 7, 2023, when a white pickup truck crashed into attendees, leaving three men seriously injured. The incident, which occurred just before the scheduled start of the parade, has raised questions about event safety and prompted concerns within the community.
The Incident Unfolds
The tranquility of the Bakersfield Christmas Parade was disrupted as a 72-year-old man, driving a white pickup truck, crashed into a crowd of attendees near 21st and H Streets in Downtown Bakersfield. The victims, aged 21, 42, and 77, were swiftly attended to by the Bakersfield Fire Department, who provided immediate aid.
Police Response
Bakersfield Police officials, already in the vicinity preparing for the parade, responded promptly to the incident. The 72-year-old driver was arrested at the scene, and an ongoing investigation is exploring alcohol as a potential factor in the crash. The driver's erratic movements, backing up at a high speed, struck the three men before coming to a stop near the downtown Bakersfield Fire station on H Street.
Victims' Condition
According to the latest update from Bakersfield Police, the three injured men, ages 21, 42, and 77, are in "stable" condition. However, the full extent of their injuries remains unknown as the investigation continues. The parade, scheduled to start at 6:00 pm, was delayed as law enforcement worked to secure the area.
Community Response
Vice Mayor Andrae Gonzales took to Instagram to share information about the incident, confirming that the driver backed into a crowd of partygoers. The injured individuals were promptly taken to the hospital for treatment, and in response to the incident, organizers rerouted the parade down Chester Street.
Ensuring Public Safety
The Bakersfield Police Department reassured the public that there is currently no threat to public safety. However, the incident prompts a critical examination of safety measures at public events. As the investigation unfolds, more information about the driver and the circumstances leading to the crash will be released.
The unexpected and unfortunate incident at the Bakersfield Christmas Parade serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures at public events. As the community awaits further details from the ongoing investigation, it is imperative for event organizers and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in ensuring the well-being of attendees. Our thoughts and wishes for a speedy recovery go out to the injured individuals, and we hope that lessons learned from this incident will contribute to enhanced safety protocols for future events.
Source: Bakersfield Now