An elderly driver in his 80s collided with Christmas shoppers in Chipping Sodbury near Bristol, injuring seven people, including two children and a baby who was taken to the hospital. The incident occurred when the driver, while maneuvering out of a parking space at a low speed, accidentally struck pedestrians attending a Christmas market.
Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, assessing the driver and victims, and confirming that none of the injuries were life-threatening or life-changing.
Witness Esra Ward, a stall operator at the market, described seeing the driver accelerate suddenly from a parked position, hitting a stroller with a baby and a nearby family.
She praised the rapid response of emergency services, which included ambulances, police, and firefighters arriving within minutes. According to police, five ambulances, an air ambulance, and additional resources were dispatched to provide immediate aid.
Elderly Driver Hits Christmas Shoppers in Chipping Sodbury, Injuring Seven, Including Baby
Police have urged witnesses or anyone with relevant footage of the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. A force spokesperson reassured the public that the situation, though serious, was under control and emphasized that the driver and all pedestrians were receiving appropriate care. Two children, including the baby, were transported to the hospital as a precaution.
Despite the incident, organizers of the Chipping Sodbury Christmas Sunday event decided to proceed with the festivities, adhering to police advice. The section of the High Street where the collision occurred was cordoned off, while other areas of the market remained open. Organizers encouraged attendees to avoid speculation and refrain from sharing photos of the scene on social media to respect the affected individuals.
The community expressed concern and relief that the injuries were not severe, while authorities continued their investigation into the cause of the collision. The event highlighted the importance of safety precautions at large gatherings, especially during the holiday season, and the efficiency of emergency responders in handling unexpected incidents.
