10 injured after police traffic officer on a motorcycle crashes into bystanders at California parade

[December 09, 2024]  PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) — Ten people were injured after a police traffic officer on a motorcycle crashed into bystanders at a weekend holiday parade in Palm Springs, California, authorities said.  

Emergency crews treat patients after a Palm Springs Police motorcycle crashes into the crowd of spectators on North Palm Canyon Drive during the Festival of Lights Parade in Palm Springs, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun via AP )

All of the injured were taken to hospitals Saturday night for treatment of injuries that were not life-threatening, including the officer, according to police.

Witnesses told The Desert Sun newspaper that the officer was popping a wheelie and suddenly lost control of the motorcycle.

The bike slid into the crowd of spectators and brought the festive event to a standstill for more than an hour.

Authorities said some emergency responders participating in the parade helped the injured, including crews on ambulances and fire trucks still adorned with holiday lights.

The crash occurred around 6 p.m. as crowds gathered to watch the 32nd annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade that typically draws between 80,000 and 100,000 spectators.

“I feel terrible about the accident and injuries to the very people we protect,” Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills said on Facebook.

City officials said the California Highway Patrol is investigating the crash and looking for any witness videos.

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