Richard Rojas named as Times Square crash driver suspect
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The suspected driver who plowed through Times Square killing an 18-year-old woman and injuring 19 more has been identified as Richard Rojas. Previous reports have indicated that he was a 26-year-old who lives in the Bronx borough of New York City and that he had a history of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Mr Rojas was reportedly a veteran of the US military.
The car, a red Honda, struck pedestrians at about 43rd Street and 7th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan and came to a stop after crashing into barricades near 45th Street and Broadway. Reporters at the scene said police had indicated that the driver of the vehicle had “lost control” in Times Square before hitting people.
The NYPD had previously said that the driver of the vehicle was in custody and was being tested for alcohol.
The crash occurred on a warm and sunny afternoon in New York that brought sizeable crowds out around the city to enjoy the weather.
State and local officials were expected to visit the site of the crash.
Times Square has a heavy police force at all times of the day and much of the sidewalks have metal bollards installed near the street to stop cars from veering into pedestrian walking areas and other public zones.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments