The driver, identified as 73-year-old Thomas Edward Kain, drove into the building while attempting to leave.He was subsequently arrested, with police stating that alcohol “was a contributing factor” in the incident, New York Post reported.
The video footage depicts the truck violently crashing into the crowded building, barreling over a row of occupied tables, and splashing drinks onto the vehicle’s windshield. Despite the harrowing nature of the incident, everyone miraculously survived.
According to police, ten people were transported to local hospitals, while 15 patrons received treatment at the scene, and five others self-transported to hospitals.
Kain faces a total of 12 charges of aggravated assault, 17 charges of endangerment, and a charge of driving under the influence to the slightest degree. In Arizona, a DUI charge to the slightest degree implies that the driver appeared intoxicated enough to warrant a DUI, even if their blood alcohol content is below .08%.
The Apache Junction Elks Lodge released a statement expressing their “heartfelt sympathy and support for all those impacted” by the unfortunate incident. They acknowledged the efforts of the first responders who provided assistance and emphasized their thoughts being with the victims and their families.
Jail records indicate that Kain is currently in custody in Pinal County. He did not immediately respond to a phone call, and court records were not accessible online on Sunday.
The city reminded everyone that “drunk driving can have serious consequences, not just for the driver but for everyone around them,” underscoring the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel, as per NBC news.
