Thirty people were injured after a drunk driver crashed his truck into a crowded bar in Arizona, sending patrons flying and leaving a trail of destruction.
Thomas Edward Kain, 73, was trying to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction around 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 7 when he forced his way into the building.
The shocking moment was captured on video, which shows the truck driving completely into the building after crashing through the wall.
Miraculously, no one was killed.
Thomas Edward Kain, 73, drove through a crowded bar in Arizona and was charged with driving under the influence
Ten of the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries, including fractures and deep lacerations, police said. One person was in critical but treatable condition.
Fifteen others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Five others drove themselves to the hospital for further examination and treatment.
Kain was charged with driving under the influence, 12 counts of aggravated assault and 17 counts of endangerment.
The driver was attempting to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction when he drove into the building.
Moments before the crash, people were seen socializing in the bar
The shocking moment was captured on video, showing the truck driving completely into the building
Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine the level of impairment in Kain.
Police expect more charges to follow.
The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation.
Police have issued a warning urging the community to make responsible decisions.
Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine the level of impairment in Kain. Police said more charges could be filed.
The Elks Lodge is located in the Phoenix suburb of Apache Junction
The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation
“Let this be a reminder: Driving under the influence is not worth the risk. Your choices can save lives,” the statement read.
The leading cause of death on Arizona’s roads is drunk driving, both alcohol and drug related. Thirty-five percent of all traffic-related deaths in the state involved alcohol, which is higher than the national average of 32 percent, according to a 2023 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The Apache Junction Police Department added: “We are fortunate that despite the seriousness of this incident, no lives were lost. However, the outcome could have been much worse.”