A motorcycle crash during the 32nd annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade on December 7, 2024 led to the hospitalization of at least 10 people. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near the intersection of Palm Canyon Drive and Amado Road in Palm Springs, amid the presence of an audience for the holiday parade.
The cause of the accident was a police officer who reportedly lost control of his motorcycle while performing a wheelie trick. After the officer was dismounted, the motorcycle continued to move and eventuality crashed into the crowd. According to reports, the officers hand was severed during the incident.
The nine spectators injured in the incident were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, as confirmed by Palm Springs police. The event, which usually draws between 80,000 and 100,000 spectators, was briefly paused after the incident but later resumed.
Witnesses at the scene captured the chaotic moments on their cell phones as attendees rushed to provide assistance. The police officers motorcycle could be seen lying close to the crowd.
The incident is presently under investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The CHP has requested that any photographs or videos of the incident be sent to [email protected] for assistance with their inquiry. Updates will be provided as the story develops.
In response to the incident, a representative of the parade stated, We appreciate the communitys support. Our thoughts are with the officer, his family, and all of those injured today.
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