Two people were killed and three others were injured on Sunday evening, September 1, 2024, when a car crashed into the patio of a restaurant in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 8 p.m. at Park Tavern, a popular establishment that has served as a community hub in the Twin Cities area for more than 60 years.
According to the St. Louis Park Police Department, the driver, a man whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was attempting to park his vehicle in the restaurant’s lot. For reasons still under investigation, the car suddenly accelerated, veering into the outdoor seating area where patrons were dining. Surveillance footage captured the chaotic moment, showing the car plowing into the patio, sending chairs, tables, and diners flying,
Emergency services arrived promptly at the scene, but despite their efforts, two individuals were pronounced dead on-site. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, as authorities are likely awaiting notification of next of kin. Three additional victims sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals. As of now, the conditions of the injured individuals have not been made public.
The driver was arrested at the scene and is facing charges of criminal vehicular homicide. The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting the local police in the ongoing investigation, which includes reconstructing the accident to determine exactly what led to the event.
Witness Josh Fix described the scene, explaining that he noticed a car suddenly accelerating as he was leaving Park Tavern and driving out of the parking lot. He managed to swerve out of the way, but the car still grazed his vehicle on the back left side. In disbelief, he looked back and saw the car crash into the patio.
Park Tavern owner Phil Weber confirmed to a local media outlet that one of the deceased was a server at the restaurant. She was a mother of three and came from a family with a history at the establishment, as her mother also worked at the bar.
Weber expressed the shock felt by the community, noting that while they have lost people before, nothing compares to the horrific nature of this incident.
The Minnesota Nurses Association also confirmed that employees from Methodist Hospital were among the victims, including one of the deceased. The hospital, located just over a mile southeast of Park Tavern, expressed its grief and commitment to supporting those affected. The hospital revealed that four nurses were injured in the incident, although city officials initially reported three injured victims.
Dr. Thomas Stark, an employee of Methodist Hospital, told KSTP-TV that the nurses went to Park Tavern, which is near the hospital, to celebrate with one who was leaving her role for a new job.
Methodist Hospital released a statement on Monday expressing its sorrow over the loss of a respected colleague and friend. The statement emphasized the importance of supporting their colleagues and the loved ones of those impacted, highlighting the close-knit relationships that make Methodist a special place. The hospital also acknowledged Park Tavern as a long-time partner, extending its thoughts to the restaurant as well.
Park Tavern remains closed until further notice as the staff copes with the loss and begins the process of healing. Despite the tragedy, Weber assured the media that the restaurant will remain a central part of St. Louis Park and recover from this devastating event.
A memorial constructed on the Park Tavern patio continues to grow as the community pays its respects.
