Waukesha Christmas Parade Catastrophe

Beth Thompson, Reporter

On November 21 there was a Christmas parade happening in the town of Waukesha, Wisconsin. Citizens were enjoying the floats and band when a red SUV came speeding through the parade, sending people into panic. The van eventually drove into a crowd of people. More than 45 people were injured and there were a total of 5 fatalities at this time. Some of those who died were members of the Milwaukee Dancing Grannies. “Our group was doing what they loved, performing in front of crowds in a parade putting smiles on faces of all ages. Those who died were extremely passionate Grannies,” posted the group on Facebook. Ten children are currently in intensive care. Authorities have identified Darrell E. Brooks as the suspect behind the wheel. According to authorities, he was involved in a domestic disturbance only minutes before driving into the parade. He fled the scene before police had arrived. Brooks is currently facing 6 accounts of intentional murder and other charges, including domestic abuse. On Monday night the town of Waukesha held a candlelight vigil to honor and memorialize those who were taken during the accident. One week later the town held a moment of silence in this time of mourning.