Philadelphia, PA – A driver was arrested on Wednesday morning after causing a multi-vehicle crash involving at least 10 cars in the Tacony section of Northeast Philadelphia, according to police.
The Incident
The crash occurred around 9 a.m. at the intersection of Tulip Street and Princeton Avenue. Authorities said the vehicle that started the chain-reaction crash had been involved in a carjacking two days prior on Torresdale Avenue.
Many of the vehicles struck were parked cars, and the accident caused electrical lines to fall, leaving wires sparking in the street. PECO crews are working to repair the damage.
Police Response
Police reported that the driver fled the scene but was later taken into custody. Charges will be announced after processing is completed.
Home surveillance footage captured a black car speeding down Tulip Street before smashing into another vehicle in the intersection. An officer on patrol attempted to pull over the driver, but the suspect backed into the police cruiser before fleeing.
Damage and Injuries
Chopper 3 footage showed a black Mercedes SUV with the back hatch ripped off, airbags deployed, and leaning against a utility pole. The SUV driver was taken to a local hospital in stable condition.
The crash left car parts scattered, electrical wires hanging, and caused damage to a Catholic church’s lawn. Several residents, including Amy Salvitti, reported their cars were totaled. Her husband, Phillip Salvitti, said this was the third time their cars were hit while parked on the block.
“It just sounded like a bomb getting dropped because it was so loud,” Amy Salvitti said. “As soon as we heard the tires screeching, we knew it was a crash.”
Investigation
The Philadelphia Police Department Crash Investigation Division is leading the investigation into the incident. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and gathering witness statements to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
Have you witnessed similar multi-car crashes in your neighborhood? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
