10 hospitalized after motorcycle officer crashes into crowd at California parade

PALM SPRINGS, Cali. (KTLA) — A crash involving a motorcycle officer left at least 10 people hospitalized during a holiday parade in Palm Springs, California, Saturday night. 

The crash happened around 6 p.m. near Palm Canyon Drive and Amado Road as crowds gathered to watch the 32nd annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade.

The officer, who was reportedly performing a wheelie trick, suddenly lost control of his bike and fell off, witnesses told the Desert Sun. However, a public information officer for the police department called the reported wheelie trick "a rumor."

The motorcycle then continued moving down the street before slamming into the crowd, according to the Palm Springs Post.

The motor officer’s hand was reportedly severed during the incident. Their injuries are "non-life threatening," Palm Springs Police said.

Nine spectators were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, Palm Springs police confirmed. Among those injured was a child who suffered "minor to moderate injuries," police spokesperson Gustavo Araiza told the Desert Sun.

Cell phone videos from witnesses captured a chaotic scene as attendees appeared to rush to help the injured bystanders. The motor officer’s bike could be seen lying on the ground near the crowd.

The parade, which typically draws between 80,000 and 100,000 spectators annually, was paused following the crash but later resumed.

“We appreciate the community’s support. Our thoughts are with the officer, his family and all of those injured today,” said Palm Springs police. 

In a statement late Saturday night, Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills said, "I feel terrible about the accident and injuries to the very people we protect. I am deeply concerned and hope for a thorough recovery."

"[California Highway Patrol] has been asked to conduct a complete traffic investigation and we will conduct an administrative investigation. As Chief of Police, I am responsible for this department and the men and women who serve," he continued. "After we conduct our investigations I will report back to the community. Again, I am truly sorry."

The incident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. Anyone with video or images of the crash is asked to email the footage to the Palm Springs City Government, PSCityGovernmentMedia@palmspringsca.gov.

"As Mayor, I take this very seriously," Palm Springs Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein wrote on Facebook. "As more facts are known, the Palm Springs City Government will keep our residents informed."