3 Hospitalized, Including 6-Year-Old Boy, After Vehicle Drives into Labor Day Festival Crowd

At least three people, including a child, were hurt after a red minivan drove into a crowd at the Kipona Festival in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, over Labor Day weekend.

The incident happened around 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 1, when the driver went around barricades and entered the crowd on South Front Street, according to ABC News and local outlet ABC 27, citing Harrisburg Bureau of Police Captain Atah Akakpo-Martin.

“The vehicle was stopped a couple of blocks later and the driver was taken out of the vehicle,” Akakpo-Martin said at a press conference, reported by CBS 21 News.

Authorities confirmed that a woman and a child were taken to the hospital, along with a city worker who tried to stop the vehicle.

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams told PEOPLE the child is a 6-year-old boy who is in critical condition. The woman, who was in a wheelchair, is stable. The city worker suffered bruises and sprains on his right arm and shoulder.

“This was a tragic ending to a beautiful three-day event that had gone smoothly,” Mayor Williams said. “We are praying for the little boy who was just there to have fun with his family. We are all shocked and saddened.”

The mayor said the driver was alone in the vehicle and that officials do not believe the crash was intentional. She remains in custody as the investigation continues. The driver was not injured.

“Let me be clear: Harrisburg will not tolerate reckless disregard for human life,” Mayor Williams said in another statement. “Our police and emergency responders acted swiftly and courageously, and the individual responsible is now in custody. Justice will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.

“Kipona has been a hallmark of Harrisburg for more than a century. Families gather, neighbors reconnect, and traditions thrive along the Susquehanna River. One reckless act cannot overshadow the spirit of this festival or the unity of our community. Safety will always be our top priority,” she added.

Photos from the scene showed the front of the red minivan badly damaged, with debris scattered across the area, ABC 27 reported.

Captain Akakpo-Martin said the crash happened in less than a minute, while officers were already clearing the festival grounds. Police have taped off the area for the investigation.

Deputy Chief Kenneth Young also released a statement: “What was meant to be a joyful celebration of community, culture, and traditions was overshadowed by an unthinkable act. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. The swift actions of police and public works staff helped prevent further harm.”

The City of Harrisburg said updates will be available through the Harrisburg Bureau of Police CrimeWatch portal and the City of Harrisburg website.