Boston taxi jumps kerb injuring 10 cabbies

Ten people have been injured, at least one in a seriously, after a taxi crashed into a group of cab drivers in what has been called a 'tragic accident'.

Boston

State Police troopers work at the scene of an accident after a taxi cab struck several pedestrians at Logan Airport, Massachusetts, 3 July, 2017. Source: THE BOSTON GLOBE

A taxi has crashed into a group of cab drivers near Boston's airport, injuring 10 people in what police said appeared to be a "tragic accident."

The 56-year-old driver's vehicle jumped a kerb around 1.40pm on Monday, police said, and struck a group of people gathered at an outdoor break area for cabbies. The area, known as the cab pool, is where drivers wait until they are called to pick up passengers at various locations around Logan International Airport.

A police official said it appears that the driver mistakenly pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake, and that it's believed to be a case of "operator error."

The crash briefly raised fears of terrorism akin to attacks in Britain and France. But Massachusetts state police Major Frank McGinn said there "does not appear at this time to be any indication of an intentional act, but more just a tragic accident."

David Procopio, a spokesman for Massachusetts State Police, said that "at this preliminary point in the investigation, there is no information that suggests the crash was intentional." He said the cab has been seized for further investigation.

The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police.

"He is known to be a very nice gentleman to his peers," McGinn said. He said the driver has no history of driving violations.

Abdias Pierre, another cab driver, said those injured all appeared to be cabbies. He said drivers play cards and dominoes at tables in the break area.

McGinn said all the injured appeared to be cab drivers.

The injuries ranged from minor to severe, authorities said. Around 4pm, McGinn said one was in serious condition and three were in "less serious but significant" condition, while six had "less serious" injuries. They were taken to several hospitals for treatment.


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Source: AAP



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