GIOTV reports that no fewer than five persons have been confirmed dead with 40 others injured after a vehicle barreled through a holiday parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on Sunday, according to the city government.
“At this time, we can confirm that 5 people are deceased and over 40 are injured,” the government posted on its social media sites late Sunday.
“However, these numbers may change as we collect additional information,” it added.
A large section of Main Street remains closed as the investigation continues.
The Archdiocese of Milwaukee released a statement confirming some of their members were injured in the parade tragedy, including children who attend the Waukesha Catholic school and one of their Catholic priests.
“Our prayers are with the people who have been injured and killed during the tragic incident in Waukesha,” Sandra Peterson, communication director for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, said in a statement.
“Among the injured are one of our Catholic priests, as well as multiple parishioners and Waukesha Catholic school children. Please join us in prayer for all those involved, their families, and those who are traumatized from witnessing the horrible scene.”
Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson said police are working with the medical examiner’s office to confirm the identifies of the fatalities — and will not release the number of deceased until the next of kin are notified.
Thompson also said roads will remain closed for at least 24 hours.