Two Killed and Three Injured When Driver Crashes Into Restaurant Patio

Saint Louis Park, Minnesota A guy drove his car through a restaurant patio in a Minneapolis suburb on Sunday, killing two people and injuring three, according to authorities.

Security footage recorded a man, who authorities did not identify, driving into the Park Tavern’s outside terrace in St. Louis Park, a city just west of Minneapolis. The camera captures the man entering the restaurant parking lot on Sunday evening but not going inside. He tried to park but ended up driving onto the outdoor patio, according to authorities.

The driver was detained on suspicion of criminal vehicular homicide. Police did not provide any additional information on a possible motivation. They also didn’t name the victims.

A representative for HealthPartners, the healthcare group that manages Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, told NBC station KARE that the facility’s nurses and staff were among the victims.

According to one eyewitness, the driver hit the back of his vehicle before mowing down a crowd of around 30 people on the patio, according to the television station.

Dr. Thomas Stark, who works at Methodist Hospital, told KSTP-TV that he went to Park Tavern with a group of coworkers on Sunday night. They were out honoring one of the hospital’s staff, who was leaving her position as a nurse to pursue a new opportunity.

“On to the next chapter of her life and everyone was out celebrating, having a good time and saying good-bye,” Stark told reporters.

According to the news station, the nurse is currently in the hospital with significant injuries.

According to its website, The Park Tavern is a “family-friendly destination that offers bowling lanes and arcade games, as well as a restaurant and bar.” The eatery announced in an online statement that it will remain closed until further notice.

“Thank you for your understanding and kindness during this incredibly difficult time,” according to the statement.

The Minnesota State Patrol conducted an accident reconstruction, and a law enforcement investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to officials.

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