3 Dead, 8 Injured as Addiction Counselor Crashed Drunk into a Crowd

In a devastating turn of events during a Fourth of July celebration in New York City, a suspected drunk driver crashed his pickup truck into a crowd of revelers, resulting in three fatalities and eight injuries. The incident occurred at Corlears Hook Park on the Lower East Side, where families had gathered to enjoy the holiday.

The driver, identified as 44-year-old Daniel Christopher Hyden, a wellness advocate and substance abuse counselor, allegedly sped through an intersection, disregarded a stop sign, and plowed into the crowd. Hyden, who also authored a book titled "The Sober Addict," has been charged with driving under the influence and driving without a valid license.

The crash, which took place just before 9 p.m. on Thursday, claimed the lives of Lucille Pinkney, 59, her son Hernan Pinkney, 38, and another unidentified woman in her early 40s. Among the injured were an 11-year-old child and several others who were swiftly taken to nearby hospitals. One victim remains in critical condition, while the others are reportedly in stable condition.

Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene as Hyden's gray Ford F-150 pickup truck barreled through the park, striking multiple individuals and pinning some beneath the vehicle. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and the New York Police Department's Emergency Service Unit (NYPD ESU) responded promptly, using specialized equipment such as airbags and jacks to lift the truck and rescue the trapped victims.

NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey stated that officers detected the smell of alcohol at the scene and commended bystanders for their quick actions in preventing Hyden from fleeing. "The community's swift response in detaining the suspect was crucial in ensuring he was held accountable for his actions," Maddrey said.

Mayor Eric Adams addressed the public, emphasizing that the incident was not linked to terrorism. "This was a tragic accident caused by reckless and irresponsible behavior," Adams said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time."

Hyden, who has a history of substance abuse, described himself as an "ex-professional addict" and has been involved in counseling and public speaking to help others manage addiction. His book, "The Sober Addict," offers insights into overcoming addiction and emphasizes that addiction is a condition that chooses individuals rather than a choice they make.

The incident has sparked outrage and grief within the community, highlighting the importance of road safety and responsible driving. "It's heartbreaking to see lives lost and families torn apart because of one person's reckless actions," said a neighbor who witnessed the crash. "The Lower East Side is a close-knit community, and we are all mourning this tragic loss."

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash, with the NYPD's Collision Investigation Squad leading the probe. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses, including the results of tests to confirm Hyden's state of intoxication at the time of the crash.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives. The victims' families and the injured are receiving support from local organizations and authorities as they navigate this difficult time.

The Fourth of July, a day meant for celebration and unity, has instead become a day of mourning for the residents of the Lower East Side. The community's resilience and solidarity will be crucial in the days ahead as they come to terms with this senseless act of violence and work towards healing and justice for the victims.