One man has been killed and another seriously injured after a pick-up truck ploughed into a Pride event in the US.
While some witnesses said the crash in Florida appeared to be intentional, police are keeping an open mind on the cause.
The incident happened during the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade in the city north of Fort Lauderdale on Saturday night.
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz says she is devastated at the death. Pic: AP
The driver and the victims were a part of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, according to the group’s president Justin Knight.
In a statement, Mr Knight said: “To my knowledge it was an accident. This was not an attack on the LGBTQ community.
“We anticipate more details to follow and ask for the community’s love and support.”
Fort Lauderdale’s Mayor Dean Trantalis said the driver of the vehicle suddenly accelerated when he was told he was next in the parade, crashing into the victims.
In the immediate aftermath of the crash, Mr Trantalis said he believed the crash was “deliberate”.
The incident happened during the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade. Pic AP
Some witnesses believe the crash was deliberate. Pic AP
Police said the driver was taken into custody, but it is unclear whether he has been charged.
Following the crash, Democratic US Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz was seen in tears while in a convertible at the parade.
In a subsequent statement, Ms Schultz said she was safe but “deeply shaken and devastated that a life was lost.”
“I am so heartbroken by what took place at this celebration,” she said.
“May the memory of the life lost be for a blessing.”
Christina Currie, who was with her family at the start of the parade, said: “All of a sudden there was a loud revving of a truck and a crash through a fence.
“It was definitely an intentional act right across the lanes of traffic.”
Broward County Sherriff Gregory Tony said: “Though authorities are still gathering information, we know two individuals marching to celebrate inclusion and equality were struck by a vehicle.
“This tragedy took place within feet of me and my team, and we are devastated having witnessed this horrific incident.”
