Car Drives Through Minnesota Restaurant Patio, Killing Two and Injuring Four

A man drove his car into a restaurant patio in a Minneapolis suburb on Sunday, killing two medical workers and injuring at least four others, according to police and hospital officials. Surveillance footage captured the incident at the Park Tavern in St. Louis Park, just west of Minneapolis.

Incident Details

The footage shows the man driving into the restaurant parking lot on Sunday evening but not entering the building. He attempted to park before driving into the outdoor patio, police said. The driver was arrested for criminal vehicular homicide, but no motive has been provided, and the victims have not been identified.

Annelise Heitkamp, a spokesperson for Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, confirmed that one of the deceased and four injured individuals worked at the hospital. "Following the tragic incident at Park Tavern, we are grieving the loss of a loved and respected colleague and friend to many here at Methodist Hospital and HealthPartners," Heitkamp said. "Our thoughts are with our colleague's family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Witness Accounts

Dr. Thomas Stark from Methodist Hospital told KSTP-TV that the group of colleagues was celebrating a nurse who was leaving her position for a new role. "On to the next chapter of her life and everyone was out celebrating, having a good time and saying good-bye," Stark said. The nurse is now hospitalized with severe injuries.

A witness told KARE-TV that the driver struck his vehicle before driving into a crowd of about 30 people on the patio. The Park Tavern is described on its website as a "family-friendly destination offering bowling lanes and arcade games, plus a restaurant and bar." The restaurant announced it would remain closed until further notice.

Ongoing Investigation

The Minnesota State Patrol conducted an accident reconstruction, and law enforcement continues to investigate the incident. Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation.

"Thank you for your understanding and kindness during this incredibly difficult time," read a statement from Park Tavern published online.

The tragic event has left the community in shock as they await further updates from authorities.