A red SUV exiting from the Varsity parking lot on Spring Street on Friday afternoon caused a chain reaction of wrecks that left eight people injured while bringing traffic on the busy downtown thoroughfare to a standstill. Authorities also found two people with gunshot wounds.
According to Atlanta police, the SUV smashed into a vehicle around 2:30 p.m. as it pulled out of the Varsity. That car then hit another SUV at Spring and Ponce de Leon Avenue, tipping that SUV on its side, according to APD spokesman John Chafee.
Meanwhile, the red SUV continued south on Spring at a high rate of speed, striking four more vehicles at the intersection of North Avenue. At that point, Chafee said, the three occupants of the red SUV fled on foot. Police eventually arrested all three — two males and one female. According to investigators, one of the male occupants sustained a gunshot wound to the hand.
An additional gunshot wound victim was located on the scene and transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he is listed in critical condition, Chafee said.
The circumstances surrounding the shootings are unclear and remain under investigation, he said. No charges have been filed.
Seven of the people injured in the traffic accidents — including two children, ages 3 and 4 — were transported to local hospitals and all are reportedly in stable condition, Chafee said.
About the Author
