Two Dead, Four Injured as Car Plows into Minnesota Restaurant Patio

A tragic incident occurred on Sunday evening when a man drove his vehicle into the outdoor patio of a restaurant in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, resulting in the deaths of two medical workers and injuries to at least four others. The gathering included healthcare professionals celebrating at the Park Tavern, situated just west of Minneapolis.

The event was captured by surveillance cameras, which showed the driver, whose identity has not been released, entering the parking lot of the restaurant. Instead of going inside, he attempted to park but then accelerated into the outdoor dining area, striking a group of approximately 30 people.

Following the incident, police arrested the driver on charges of criminal vehicular homicide. Details regarding the motive behind the act have not been disclosed, and authorities have not yet released the names of the victims. However, Annelise Heitkamp, a spokesperson for Methodist Hospital located in St. Louis Park, confirmed that one of the deceased and the four injured individuals were employees of the medical facility.

Heitkamp expressed the hospital’s grief in a written statement, calling the deceased one of the loved and respected colleagues at Methodist Hospital. She emphasized the hospital’s sympathy for the family and friends of the victims during this challenging time.

The identities of the victims have not been made known, but it was reported that all four injured individuals were nurses. Dr. Thomas Stark, a medical professional at Methodist Hospital, informed KSTP-TV that the group had gathered at the restaurant to celebrate the departure of one of their nurses, who was moving on to a new job opportunity.

Stark described the gathering as a farewell celebration, noting that the nurses were joyfully saying goodbye and celebrating the nurse’s next chapter in her career. Sadly, this nurse is now hospitalized with severe injuries stemming from the accident.

Witnesses recounted chaotic scenes as the driver crashed into the back of one vehicle before barreling into the crowd on the patio. The incident created a sudden and horrifying moment for all present, changing what should have been a joyful occasion into a scene of devastation.

The Park Tavern is known for being a family-friendly venue, offering bowling, arcade games, and dining options. In response to the tragedy, the restaurant announced it would remain closed indefinitely, prioritizing the well-being and support of the affected individuals.

In their public statement, the tavern expressed gratitude for the community’s understanding and kindness during this difficult period.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, with the Minnesota State Patrol conducting a thorough reconstruction of the accident. The ongoing investigation aims to gather more information and clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.