One person is dead and five others are injured after a sedan crashed into the emergency room of St. David’s North Austin Medical Center in Austin, Texas on Tuesday evening.
The Austin Police Department confirmed that the driver of the sedan died in the crash. The vehicle reportedly broke through the hospital’s emergency room entrance, causing damage and leaving multiple people injured. In response, the emergency medical services declared a level 1 mass casualty incident, mobilizing additional resources to the scene.
As of 9 p.m. EST, eight patients are waiting to be transported to other area hospitals. Two children were taken to Dell Children’s Hospital and two adults were taken to other hospitals, while another adult was transported in critical condition to St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center. The Austin Fire Department also responded to the crash, dispatching a hazmat task force to the scene.
The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and the Austin Police Department is working alongside the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services to investigate the incident. However, in an updated statement, the department reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to the general public at this time. They also stated that the crash did not appear to be intentional.
WATCH LIVE: Austin officials hold press conference after car crashes into north Austin emergency room, injuring multiple people.
Livestream here: https://t.co/TAI9WBIZel pic.twitter.com/DOg7gSkOjZ
— KXAN News (@KXAN_News) February 14, 2024
In a media briefing, the Austin Police Department further elaborated that vehicular homicide detectives are on the scene, attempting to gather information about what led up to the crash. The department also requested assistance from eyewitnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact them.
The crash disrupted the local area, and drivers are advised to avoid the vicinity of St. David’s North Austin Medical Center. The emergency room at the hospital has been temporarily closed for assessment and repairs, while the hospital continues to operate normally in all other departments.
The community has been stunned by the news of the crash, and many are expressing their condolences for the deceased and their prayers for those injured in the incident. The effects of the crash are still being felt, and updates will continue to be provided as the investigation unfolds. The Austin Police Department has also assured the public that they will release more information as it becomes available.
JUST IN: Multiple injuries reported after a car plows through an emergency room in Austin, Texas.
Devastating.
The incident happened at the St. David’s North Austin Medical Center emergency room in North Austin.
Reports estimate there are about 10 injuries. One person is dead… pic.twitter.com/xC8Ov9vidd
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 14, 2024
