Transport van crashes into tree in Brooklyn, injuring 14 people
BATH BEACH, Brooklyn (WABC) -- A transport van carrying adults with special needs, and a chaperone crashed into a tree in Brooklyn, injuring more than a dozen people.
The minivan, operated by D & J Ambulette Services, struck the tree on Cropsey Avenue in Bath Beach just before 10 a.m. Tuesday, splitting it into two.
The 44-year-old driver apparently swerved to avoid another car and ended up crashing into the tree as it was headed to an adult daycare center.
The minivan was carrying 13 people, including 12 adults with special needs, and a chaperone.
All of them suffered minor injuries, including the driver. Fortunately, all 14 people were not seriously injured. The passengers were taken to NYU Langone Hospital where they were evaluated. One person did have an injury to their left leg and another suffered a cut to their head.
Eyewitness News was told the driver refused medical attention.
Residents in the area are just thankful the outcome wasn't worse.
"It's sad because they definitely need a lot of attention more than anyone else," said neighbor Matthew Fischioni. "I hope that they're all OK at the end of the day."
D & J Ambulette Services provides transportation for adult day cares, nursing homes and hospitals.
Eyewitness News reached out to D & J Ambulette Services, but they did not answer.
The investigation into what caused the crash continues.
The New York City Parks Department has since removed the tree.
----------
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
