On Saturday evening, a vehicle struck two individuals during a South Florida LGBT Pride Parade, killing one and injuring another.
The incident occurred at Wilton Manors’ Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival, just north of Fort Lauderdale. It arrived just before the parade’s commencement.
The County Sheriff, Gregory Tony, said that at today’s Stonewall Pride Parade, what began as a celebration swiftly devolved into tragedy. He added that though police are still collecting facts, they do know that a car hit two people walking to celebrate inclusiveness and equality. One of the individuals has died, while the other remains hospitalized.
Gregory said that the tragic event occurred within feet of me and my BSO crew, and they are horrified to have seen such an atrocity. He further said that he is proud of all of the BSO and local first responders who jumped into action, charging into the unknown and providing immediate treatment to the wounded.
Both people were transported to Broward Health Medical Center, where one died. According to officials, the other guy is likely to live.
Authorities are currently conducting an investigation to determine if the incident was an accident or a purposeful act. According to authorities, the motorist was brought into jail for questioning. The vehicle came to a halt when it collided with a neighboring gate.
Police Spokesman Ali Adamson has said that the investigation is ongoing, and we are weighing all options. He added that nothing is off the table at the moment; they have to consider all possibilities, which they are doing.
He also mentioned that the FBI is assisting in an attempt to conduct an exhaustive and comprehensive investigation.
Additionally, the car barely avoided colliding with a convertible being driven by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., according to WPLG.
Wasserman Schultz, who has served the 23rd Congressional District since 2013, was spotted making calls and being consoled by employees after the incident.
She said that they are praying for the victims and their families while law enforcement conducts its investigation, and she is assisting them in any way she can. She expressed that she is devastated by what occurred during this celebration.
The event was supposed to begin at 7 p.m. but was delayed due to the incident. According to Wilton Manors police, it was cancelled after the accident, but the event was initiated.
