Multiple injured after vehicle plows through Native American parade, suspect in custody

A suspect is in custody after driving a car through a parade in New Mexico Thursday evening injuring multiple people, including two police officers, police say.

The parade was a celebration of Native American culture.

New Mexico State Police said 15 people were taken to hospitals after suffering non life-threatening injuries. The two officers who were injured were trying to stop the vehicle, according to police

Jeff Kenn Irving, 33, of Pinedale, New Mexico, is now facing multiple charges, including aggravated driving while intoxicated or impaired, aggravated fleeing and driving with a suspended or revoked license, according to statement from police.

"At this time, there is no reason to suspect this crime was motivated by hate," police said.

The incident unfolded at the Gallup Intertribal Ceremonial Centennial Celebration, honoring Native American culture and heritage, New Mexico State Police said. The parade started at 7 p.m. according to the event website.

Jarring videos shared on social media showed the parade underway with dancers and performers in the street when the tan SUV appeared and people scrambled to run out of its path. Spectators were heard screaming and shouting "oh my God!" as they ran.

The vehicle appeared to speed through the parade route, not slowing down as attendees panicked and tried to flee the scene.

The City of Gallup, located about two hours west of Albuquerque, said in an incident alert at 8 p.m. local time: “Fortunately, no spectators or parade participants have been reported as struck by the vehicle."

However, New Mexico State Police said multiple were injured in the ensuing chaos. A number of the injured was not released and they were treated at the scene, police said.

The City of Gallup said “the vehicle and its three occupants” were detained