Driver Plows into Sidewalk Crowd, Killing 2 and Leaving 3 in Critical Condition

A horrifying scene unfolded on the streets of New York City Friday evening after a driver lost control of his vehicle and plowed into pedestrians on a crowded sidewalk, killing two people and critically injuring three others, according to police.

The deadly crash happened around 6 p.m. near Amsterdam Avenue and West 109th Street on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Investigators say a 61-year-old driver, who may have been under the influence, suddenly jumped the curb and slammed into multiple people walking along the sidewalk.

Police said a 35-year-old man and a 46-year-old man were killed in the crash.

Three additional victims — men ranging in age from 36 to 52 — were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

Authorities have not yet filed charges against the driver as the investigation remains ongoing.

Witnesses described the terrifying moment the speeding vehicle barreled through the area while people were out enjoying their evening.

“He was just swerving, driving really fast, and then he drove up over the median,” witness Eva Santiago said. “We seen the car go up in the air and come down and land on everybody.”

At least one victim was reportedly pinned beneath the vehicle after the impact.

Police said the crash appears to have been accidental and not intentional, though investigators are still working to determine exactly what happened.

One witness said the driver appeared confused and disoriented after climbing out of the wrecked vehicle.

The emotional aftermath left neighbors shaken as first responders raced to save victims lying in the street.

Retired EMT Janice Diaz said she immediately rushed over to help after spotting multiple people unconscious on the ground.

“I am just yelling, ‘Back up, back up! I’m an EMT, I’m trying to help! Someone help me to hold his head and call 911!’” Diaz recalled.

She said many of the victims were well-known in the neighborhood.

“These are all people from our neighborhood,” Diaz said.

Part of the area remained shut down for hours as police investigated the mangled wreckage and emergency crews worked at the scene. The New York City Police Department warned drivers to expect heavy traffic and emergency vehicle activity in the area.