10 injured when police car crashes with vehicle, jumps curb in Bronx
LONGWOOD, The Bronx (WABC) -- Ten people were hurt after a police car responding to a call clipped another car, went out of control and plowed into a group of people on the sidewalk.
The collision was so violent that it took out a traffic pole. Witnesses say the police cruiser was flying down the street, and it happened so quickly that there was no way to get out of the way.
It happened just after 3 p.m. Thursday at Westchester and Hoe Avenues in the Longwood section of the Bronx.
"They couldn't even move. Somebody is going to die," said Yamil Irazariy.
The cruiser with its lights on is seen crossing over the double yellow line into oncoming traffic. Then an Acura at the light made a left turn into the cruiser, clipping it and sending it onto the sidewalk.
"The lady, you know, like her flying up and s*** her legs and she was bleeding from her chin and from her cheek all the way down to her chin," said one eyewitness named Anthony.
Police say four pedestrians were struck on the sidewalk, including a five-year-old. Two other pedestrians were struck by a traffic pole.
Two people inside the Acura, including a 2-year-old were injured. The two police officers in the cruiser were also hurt. Ten people were injured in total.
"I really want to commend the members of the 41 precinct because they were trying to get here, they weren't trying to prevent that crime. They were trying to apprehend someone that was attempting to steal a vehicle," said NYPD Chief Maddrey.
The FDNY says four people were rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, including the man run over and the 5-year-old.
Everyone is expected to survive.
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