Deliberate but Random: Berkeley Police on Driver Attack

Overview of the Incident

On a Tuesday morning in Berkeley, a tragic incident occurred in the Elmwood district that left three residents injured. According to authorities, the driver involved in the incident chose his victims at random. The victims included a 78-year-old man on a bike, a 46-year-old woman jogging, and a 30-year-old man walking a dog. All three individuals are currently hospitalized at Highland Hospital, the local trauma center, and are in stable condition.

Details of the Driver's Actions

The driver, identified as a 26-year-old man from Vallejo, was under the influence of drugs when he struck all three people near Emerson Elementary shortly before 8 a.m. Police have stated that there is no evidence suggesting the incident was racially or politically motivated.

The driver was arrested on suspicion of three counts of attempted murder, two counts of attempted carjacking, vehicle theft, and several other crimes, including felony DUI causing injury. His name has not been released pending the booking process.

During the incident, two of the carjacking victims were mothers with children in the car. One victim described the situation, stating they were in the car with her baby when the driver tried to get in and pull them out. The attack occurred just before school drop-off time during the morning commute, adding to the concern and fear among the community.

Video and Witness Accounts

A graphic video of part of the attack, shared by KTVU's Henry Lee, has circulated online, drawing attention to the severity of the event. According to early reports, the driver, who was in a stolen BMW, went onto the sidewalk on Belrose Avenue and intentionally struck a man walking a dog, dragging him for at least 30 feet. Witnesses reported that the driver then "accelerated, and went back to hit the female victim."

A BPD officer responding to the initial call came across the third victim, the 78-year-old cyclist, surrounded by a crowd on Derby Street. The driver quickly dumped the stolen BMW in the 2800 block of Garber Street by Emerson Elementary. The car had been taken from an address in Richmond earlier that morning but had not yet been reported.

Additional Incidents and Arrest

Following the carjacking attempts, the driver tried to steal an unoccupied car from a property on College Avenue. Less than 10 minutes after the incident began, BPD found the driver in a yard and ordered him onto the ground. Officers ultimately used a restraint device to take him into custody after he refused to cooperate.

According to Berkeley police, preliminary checks indicate the driver has had no prior contacts with Berkeley law enforcement. Authorities are still asking community members to share any related information, including video footage, about the incidents that occurred on Tuesday morning.

Community Response and Ongoing Investigations

The incident has sparked concern within the community, prompting calls for increased safety measures and vigilance. Local authorities continue to investigate the events leading up to the incident and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge, providing clarity on the motives and actions of the driver. The community remains on high alert, hoping for justice and a safer environment for all residents.