Driver plows into Wisconsin Christmas parade, leaving 5 dead and 48 injured

On Sunday evening, a man intentionally drove into a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, killing at least five and injuring 48.

Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson announced more details on Monday morning, where he became emotional while announcing the names of the five who died. Those who passed were between the ages of 52 and 81.

Thompson announced the suspect was Darrell Brooks, 39, who has a long criminal record, beginning in 1999. Previous arrests included those for drugs, battery and domestic abuse, records showed. He had two open cases in the state. Before driving into the parade, he had been the suspect of a domestic disturbance, which he left before police arrived.

The Milwaukee Dancing Grannies announced that several of the deceased were members of their group. “Our group was doing what they loved, performing in front of crowds in a parade putting smiles on faces of all ages,” the group wrote in a statement on Facebook. “Those who died were extremely passionate Grannies.”

Brooks reportedly zipped down the street, driving from side-to-side, purposely targeting those on the street. Thompson said that Brooks did not fire any weapons, like some had reported. One cop shot at his vehicle in an attempt to stop it. Eyewitnesses report hearing screams and people running away from the incident, crying. He is being charged on five counts of homicide.

Shawn Reilly, the mayor of Waukesha, said the community had endured “horror and tragedy” on a day that was supposed to be centered around celebration. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers tweeted that he was “praying for Waukesha tonight and all the kids, families, and community members affected by this senseless act”. He praised the first responders who had responded to the scene. Josh Kaul, the Wisconsin attorney general tweeted: “What took place in Waukesha today is sickening, and I have every confidence that those responsible will be brought to justice.”