One killed, 22 hurt after car rams Times Square pedestrians

At least 22 people injured in central New York; motorist reportedly in police custody.

By REUTERS, JPOST.COM STAFF
Updated: MAY 18, 2017 20:57
Car rams Times Square pedestrians (Reuters)
New York City Police Commissioner James O'Neil identified the driver of the speeding car that crashed into pedestrians on a sidewalk in New York City's busy Times Square on Thursday, killing one and causing multiple injuries as 26-year-old Richard Rojas.
22 people were treated for injuries, four are now in critical condition according to the New York Fire Department.
First responders are assisting injured pedestrians after a vehicle struck pedestrians on a sidewalk in Times Square in New York, US, May 18, 2017. (Reuters)
First responders are assisting injured pedestrians after a vehicle struck pedestrians on a sidewalk in Times Square in New York, US, May 18, 2017. (Reuters)
The New York Police Department closed off the area. According to CNN, Rojas, who allegedly has a history of drunk driving, was in police custody. Police bomb squads arrived at the scene, however it was not clear if they were called in per procedure or for other reasons.

A Reuters witness said at least 10 people were being treated for injuries on the ground after the collision around noon ET (1600 GMT) at the Midtown Manhattan tourist site.
 Witnesses said they saw the red sedan driving against traffic and onto the sidewalk, striking pedestrians.

The car crashed into a pole and came to rest at 45th Street and Broadway.
Seven people were being placed on stretchers, a Reuters witness said. Shoes were scattered at the scene and one person was covered by a bloodstained blanket, the Reuters witness said.