A festive day turned chaotic when a car collided with a group of pedestrians at Chipping Sodbury’s High Street Christmas market, near Bristol. Two children, including a baby, and five adults were injured in the incident, which occurred at approximately 11:58 GMT on Sunday.
Details of the Incident
Authorities reported that a man in his 80s was maneuvering his vehicle out of a parking space when it accidentally accelerated, striking the crowd at low speed. Despite the dramatic scene, no injuries have been deemed life-threatening or life-changing, according to Avon and Somerset Police.
Swift Emergency Response
Five ambulances, an air ambulance, and multiple emergency services arrived promptly, ensuring rapid medical attention. Paramedics treated seven people at the scene before transferring the injured to local hospitals.
Market Continues Amid Safety Concerns
Despite the incident, organizers confirmed that the market remained open, with certain areas temporarily closed for the emergency response. They urged attendees not to share photos or speculate on social media while authorities handled the situation.
Eyewitness Accounts
Esra Ward, a pizza stall operator, described the harrowing moment:
“The car suddenly accelerated and hit several people. There was a mum with a baby in a pushchair. It was frightening, but emergency services arrived within minutes.”
Another stallholder, Ady Jones, expressed relief that injuries weren’t worse:
“There was shouting and panic. The stalls closed temporarily, but thankfully it wasn’t more serious.”
Reflection and Relief
While the incident caused temporary disruption and distress, the swift response of emergency services helped mitigate what could have been a far more severe tragedy. The local community has expressed gratitude that no lives were lost during the unfortunate accident.
NEWS SOURCES
ITV News, LBC News, Bristol Post, BBC NEWS, CNN
