A newly released video captures the moment when a suspected drunk driver crashed his truck into an Arizona social club on Saturday, September 7. Despite 25 injuries, miraculously, no one was killed.
The driver, identified as 73-year-old Thomas Edward Kain, attempted to leave Elks Lodge #2349 in Apache Junction around 8:30 pm when his vehicle smashed through the building, plowing through a row of occupied tables and causing numerous injuries.
The truck only stopped once it was fully inside the lodge, with video footage showing the windshield covered in drinks.
Watch:
CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Surveillance video captures the moment a driver plowed into a packed Elks Lodge Saturday night in Apache Junction, AZ, injuring at least 30 people. Thomas Kain, 73, is accused of operating his pickup truck under the influence.@FOX10Phoenix pic.twitter.com/myn6ftSduq
— Trenton Hooker (@trentonhooker) September 10, 2024
Several individuals were rushed to hospitals
According to the City of Apache Junction, AZ’s website, “Ten individuals were transported to multiple hospitals by ambulance, while fifteen others received treatment on-site for minor injuries. At least five additional individuals drove themselves to local hospitals for further medical evaluation. Currently, one person remains in critical but stable condition, with ongoing improvements to their health.”
Kain now faces 12 charges of aggravated assault, 17 counts of endangerment, and a DUI – slightest degree. Authorities have indicated that additional charges could be filed, depending on blood test results that will determine the “extent of alcohol impairment.”
In a statement, the Elks Lodge expressed their sympathy, saying, “In response to the unfortunate incident at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge last night, we want to express our heartfelt sympathy and support for all those impacted. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we want to recognize the tireless efforts of the first responders who assisted.”
The Apache Junction Police Department, in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, is investigating the crash. The City of Apache Junction, AZ website also emphasized the risks of driving under the influence.
“Impaired driving drastically reduces reaction times, decision-making abilities, and motor skills, putting everyone on the road at risk. We are fortunate that, despite the severity of this incident, no lives were lost. However, the outcome could have been far worse,” the statement read.