Several people killed as SUV rams Christmas Parade in the US
Washington : A SUV car plowed into a Christmas parade in the United States state of Wisconsin; several fatalities have been reported in the initial reports. More than 20 people have also been reported injured in the incident.
The US officials were still gathering information on the incident that happened just after 4:30 pm (2230 GMT), as spectators in the town of Waukesha, a Milwaukee suburb, watched the annual tradition.
"The Waukesha Christmas parade was taking place when a red SUV broke through the barricades, westbound, headed down Main Street," Police Chief Dan Thompson told reporters.
In the shocking video, the SUV car can be seen running over more than 20 people in the parade. Children were among those hit by the car.
The police have not officially revealed the number of people killed or struck by the car.
A total of 11 adults and 12 children were taken to six area hospitals, Fire Chief Steven Howard told reporters.
A suspect has been arrested as the cops managed to capture the involved vehicle. During the incident an officer fired at the SUV in an attempt to stop it, the authorities added.
Schools will not open Monday and roads will remain closed, Thompson said, while the investigation is continuing.
President Joe Biden has received a briefing on the situation and the White House is "closely monitoring the situation in Waukesha and our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by this terrible incident," said a White House official.
"We have reached out to state and local officials to offer any support and assistance as needed," added the official.
