USA Today: “The driver of an SUV that hurtled through a barricade and slammed into a Christmas parade in suburban Waukesha on Sunday was fleeing from a domestic disturbance moments before he killed at least five people and injuring more than 40 others, police said. Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson said Monday that Darrell Brooks Jr., 39, was fleeing a domestic disturbance with a report of a knife when he rammed into the parade. Brooks was not being chased, Thompson said. He will be charged with five counts of intentional homicide, Thompson added.
“The victims’ ages ranged from 52 to 81 years old. Thompson said 48 others were injured in the crash, which was captured on the city’s livestream as the car rammed struck high school band, children’s dance group and the Milwaukee Dancing Grannies. Local hospital officials said earlier Monday at least six children remain in critical condition. Children’s Wisconsin Hospital received 18 patients from the ages of 3 to 16, including three sets of siblings, doctors say.
“‘Today we experienced a horrible, senseless tragedy. I walked in the parade at the beginning,’ Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly said at a news conference. ‘I saw the happy children sitting on the curb. I saw happy parents behind their children. I can still see the smiling faces.’ Gov. Tony Evers ordered that flags be flown at half staff Monday and on the days when funerals for the victims take place. Evers said he and wife, Kathy, were ‘praying for Waukesha tonight and all the kids, families, and community members affected by this senseless act.’ The city of Waukesha said it would hold an interfaith prayer vigil Monday.”