Stolen car hits 10 people and other vehicles in Manhattan as driver tries to flee, police say
Police say the driver of a stolen car was taken into custody after it hit 10 people and other vehicles during Tuesday evening's rush hour in Manhattan.
Police say a license plate reader tipped officers to the whereabouts of the stolen Hyundai and they followed it at a low rate of speed because of the heavy traffic.
According to police, the Hyundai then hit a bicyclist and yellow cab before going up on a sidewalk and hitting more pedestrians while making a U-turn in the middle of an intersection. A black livery cab was also struck. Then, the motorist got out and attempted to run but good Samaritans caught up with him and officers arrested him.
Police on Wednesday identified the driver as 20-year-old Kyle Fernandez. Police sources told CBS New York that Fernandez has multiple prior arrests and one open case in Manhattan. He was arrested on Jan. 16 and charged with robbery, assault and criminal mischief. That case is still pending. He also has prior arrests related to gun possession and drug possession charges. Police said he didn't have a New York State driver's license.
Officials said the people injured ranged in age from 6 to 72 and none of the injuries were non-life threatening.
Authorities said there didn't appear to be any terrorism-related motives involved.
Police announce charges
Police on Wednesday said Fernandez is facing ten charges for his alleged driving spree through midtown Manhattan, CBS New York reported. The charges include:
- Reckless endangerment
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Fleeing from an officer
- Possession of stolen property
- Resisting arrest
- Obstruction of governmental administration
- Driving a vehicle impaired by drugs
- No license
- Failure to obey a police officer
- Driving on the sidewalk