A chaotic scene unfolded in Boston’s Chinatown district when a box truck veered off the road and struck multiple pedestrians on a busy sidewalk.
The incident, which occurred around 12:40 p.m. near Harrison Avenue and Kneeland Street, has left several people injured and prompted a swift response from local authorities and emergency services.
According to Fox News, the truck, identified as a yellow Penske rental vehicle, plowed into pedestrians before crashing into poles and flipping onto its side, becoming wedged between a pole and a nearby building.
Boston police reported that firefighters used extrication tools to free the trapped driver from the cab. Tufts Medical Center confirmed to Fox News that it received three patients from the crash, though the total number of victims remains unclear as the investigation continues.
The Daily Mail described the event as a “horror” for onlookers, emphasizing the suddenness of the truck mowing down pedestrians in the bustling downtown area.
Posts on X echoed this sentiment, with users expressing shock and concern. One post noted that at least five people were rushed to the hospital, while another cited a deputy fire chief reporting that one pedestrian was dragged during the incident.
Details from FOX 7 Austin elaborated on the aftermath: the truck’s violent path included striking multiple poles before its dramatic end.
Police have cordoned off the area with yellow tape, and both homicide and fatal accident teams are on the scene, indicating the seriousness of the situation. Authorities have not yet released an official count of victims, but earlier statements suggested at least two individuals were in critical condition.
Penske, the rental company, issued a statement to Fox News Digital, confirming that the truck was rented to a commercial trucking company at the time of the incident.
“Penske will be cooperating fully with authorities to support their investigation,” a spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with those who have been injured in this unfortunate incident.”
While initial speculation on X raised fears of terrorism, a later post suggested that preliminary investigations point to a tragic accident rather than an intentional act.
Boston police have not confirmed the cause, stating only that it remains a “very active scene” as they work to piece together what happened.
The incident, occurring just half a mile from Downtown Boston, has rattled the community on an otherwise typical Tuesday afternoon.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging witnesses to come forward with any information that could clarify the circumstances leading to this devastating event. For now, the focus remains on the recovery of those injured and the ongoing efforts of first responders at the scene.
