Thirty injured after alleged drunk driver plows truck into packed Arizona bar

Thirty people were injured after an alleged drunk driver crashed his truck into a packed bar in Arizona, sending patrons flying and leaving a path of destruction. 

Thomas Edward Kain, 73, was attempting to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction around 8:30pm on September 7 when he plowed into the building. 

The shocking moment was captured on video, which showed the truck fully entering the building after knocking through its wall.   

Miraculously, no one was killed. 

Thomas Edward Kain, 73, drove straight through a crowded bar in Arizona and was charged with DUI

Ten of those who were injured were taken to nearby hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries, including fractures and deep cuts, police said. One person was in critical but table condition.

Fifteen others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Five others drove themselves to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment. 

Kain was charged with DUI, 12 counts of aggravated assault and 17 counts of endangerment. 

The driver was attempting to leave the Elks Lodge in Apache Junction when he plowed into the building. 

Just moments before the crash, people were seen mingling inside the bar

The shocking moment was captured on video, which showed the truck fully entering the building

Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine Kains level of impairment. 

Police said that additional charges may follow.

The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation.

Police released a warning urging members of the community to make responsible decisions.

Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test to determine Kains level of impairment. Police said that additional charges may follow

The Elks Lodge is located in the Phoenix suburb of Apache Junction

The Apache Junction Police Department is working closely with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which is conducting its own investigation 

Let this be a reminder: driving under the influence is not worth the risk. Your choices can save lives, the statement said.

The leading cause of death on Arizona roads is impaired driving - both alcohol- and drug-related. Thirty-five percent of all traffic-related deaths in the state involved alcohol, exceeding the national average of 32 percent, according to a 2023 report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Apache Junction Police department added: We are fortunate that, despite the severity of this incident, no lives were lost. However, the outcome could have been far worse.