An alleged drunk driver plowed his truck into an Arizona social club Saturday and threw several patrons like rag dolls in a terrifying caught-on-camera moment in which everyone miraculously survived, according to authorities.
Thomas Edward Kain, 73, attempted to leave the Elks Lodge #2349 in Apache Junction around 8:30 p.m. when he inadvertently crashed through the building and violently barreled over a row of occupied tables that left more than two dozen visitors injured, according to the local responders and shocking footage.
The truck came to a stop after it was fully inside the lodge, and its windshield was splashed with drinks, according to the video surveillance.
Ten people were taken to the local hospitals while another 15 patrons received treatment on-site, cops said.
Kain was hit with 12 charges of aggravated assault, 17 charges of endangerment and driving under the influence in the slightest degree, police said.
In Arizona, a DUI charge to the slightest degree means the driver allegedly appeared buzzed enough to be slapped with a DUI even if the motorist’s blood alcohol content is under .08%.
“In response to the unfortunate incident at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge last night, we want to express our heartfelt sympathy and support for all those impacted,” the club said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we want to recognize the tireless efforts of the first responders who assisted.”
Apache police said in a statement the crash highlights the dangers of driving under the influence.
“We are fortunate that, despite the severity of this incident, no lives were lost. However, the outcome could have been far worse,” the department said.
