Alleged Drunk Driver Strikes Three Spectators at Bakersfield Christmas Parade
ICARO Media Group
Bakersfield, Calif. - In a shocking incident before the start of the Bakersfield Parade, three spectators were left injured when a truck allegedly driven by Alan Booth, a 72-year-old resident of Bakersfield, hit them. Booth was arrested on Thursday night on felony charges of driving under the influence.
According to police, the incident occurred when Booth reversed his vehicle from an alley at a high rate of speed and crashed into paradegoers along 21 Street. BPD Police Chief Greg Terry confirmed that Booth was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
The three victims, aged 21, 32, and 77, were immediately transported to a local hospital. Despite suffering from skeletal-type and bone-fracture injuries, they are currently reported to be in stable condition. Terry shared this update during an interview on 17 News at Sunrise on Friday.
Following the crash, there was a flurry of misinformation spreading among paradegoers near the crash site and across various social media platforms. Consequently, the start of the parade was delayed by approximately 45 minutes.
As of Friday morning, court documents revealed that Alan Booth was not listed in custody. The police investigation is ongoing, and further legal proceedings are expected.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by driving under the influence of alcohol. Authorities are urging everyone to prioritize safety and responsible behavior, particularly during festive celebrations.
The Bakersfield community has come together to offer support and well wishes to the injured victims and their families. Efforts are being made to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future, highlighting the need for stringent enforcement of laws and continued education regarding the perils of drunk driving.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
The Bakersfield Parade, once resumed, proceeded without further incidents, uniting the community in the holiday spirit after the unfortunate incident.