Driver Plows into D.C. Fest, Injuring 35

Jun 03, 10:43 AM

Current Headlines: By Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- A woman sped through a crowded street festival Saturday night, injuring about 35 people including two police officers who drove their motor scooters into the path attempting to stop the driver, authorities said.

The injured, including at least seven critically, were taken to area hospitals, said Alan Etter, a spokesman for the District of Columbia fire department.

Etter said authorities believe the driver was going about 70 mph when she came through the Unifest festival at about 8 p.m. The woman fled the scene and was caught about a block away, he said.

Police identified the driver as Tonya Bell, 30, of Oxon Hill, Md. They said there was a 7- or 8-year-old child in the car with her.

"We're still trying to piece together exactly just what happened that led up to this," District of Columbia Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier said at the scene.

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