A tragic motorcycle accident during the 32nd annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade left ten people, including a Palm Springs police officer, hospitalized. The incident occurred around 6 PM on Saturday, with hundreds of spectators gathered to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Details of the Accident:
- Video footage shared on social media shows the officer losing control of his motorcycle, which then careened into a crowd of spectators.
- In a particularly devastating turn, the officer’s hand was reportedly severed during the crash.
Statements from Officials:
- Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills expressed deep remorse, stating:
“I feel terrible about the accident and injuries to the very people we protect. I am deeply concerned and hope for a thorough recovery.” - Chief Mills also promised transparency, assuring the community that the California Highway Patrol is conducting a traffic investigation, which will be followed by an administrative review by the Palm Springs Police Department.
He emphasized:
“After we conduct our investigations, I will report back to the community. Again, I am truly sorry.”
Injury Reports:
- The injuries sustained by the spectators are reported to be non-life-threatening, offering some relief in the wake of the distressing event.
The incident has cast a somber shadow over the holiday parade, and the community now awaits further details from the ongoing investigations.