A 19-year-old driver struck six pedestrians outside the iconic Ted Drewes Frozen Custard stand in south St. Louis on Sunday evening. One of the victims remains in critical condition.
Incident Overview
At about 8 p.m. Sunday, a vehicle went into the parking lot of Ted Drewes on Chippewa Street, hitting a group of pedestrians ranging in age from 12 to 70. Six people were taken to local hospitals with injuries that ranged from minor to critical, according to the St. Louis Fire Department.
Eyewitnesses described the car as white and said that after the accident, it reversed into the street and drove away. Hours later, the 19-year-old driver returned, allegedly with the support of his family, to be interviewed by the police.
Ongoing Investigation
The driver claimed he left because people in the crowd started yelling at him, according to Mitch McCoy of the St. Louis Police Department. The man is being interviewed by detectives, and he likely will face charges.
An outbuilding adjacent to the garage that often has been used as a site to sell Christmas trees also received damage.
History of Safety Concerns
This incident re-ignites long-standing safety concerns around Ted Drewes. This year alone, there were fatal pedestrian accidents in the area. In 2022, two separate crashes killed Edward Walter, 77, and Matthew Nikolai, 17.
City officials have faced criticism over delays in safety measures. In the offseason of Ted Drewes’ early 2025, improvements will be made with brighter lights, bollards, and signalized crossing.
Community and Official Response
“We are praying for those involved and appreciate the rapid response from our first responders,” said Mayor Tishaura Jones’ spokesperson, Conner Kerrigan.
The neighborhood remains clamoring for authorities to do something sooner rather than later to avoid a disaster happening here again.
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