Two people killed, several injured as man drives car into outdoor restaurant patio
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Two people were killed and several people were injured when a man drove a vehicle into the patio at Park Tavern in St. Louis Park on Sunday night.
The driver was arrested and is being held in jail pending charges.
Park Tavern posted a link to a fundraiser for the family of Kristina Folkerts, who they said was killed in the crash.
“Kristina was a loving mother of 3 young girls and friend to many in the community,” the post says. “We are at a deep loss and thank you for your support during this challenging time.”
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Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park confirmed that one of their employees was killed in the crash. Hospital employees and friends who created an online memorial fundraiser identified the person who died as Gabe Harvey. They said Harvey was a health unit coordinator at Methodist, and had gathered with colleagues to celebrate a coworker’s last shift in the hospital’s ICU.
“There was not a soul that Gabe met that he didn’t leave an impression on,” the fundraiser organizers wrote. “He always had a smile and a kind word for everyone.”
Organizers said money raised will go towards Harvey’s partner for living expenses and funeral costs.
"We’re grieving the loss of a loved and respected colleague and friend to many here at Methodist Hospital and HealthPartners," a statement from the hospital said. "Our thoughts are with our colleague’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."
The hospital said four Methodist Hospital nurses were among those injured on Sunday.
"Our focus in the days ahead will be in supporting our colleagues and the loved ones of those affected by this tragedy. The close relationships our colleagues have with each other is part of what makes Methodist a special place," the statement said.
St. Louis Park police said they were called to Park Tavern just after 8 p.m. Sunday. They found surveillance footage, showing someone driving into the Park Tavern parking lot, attempting to park and then driving into the outdoor patio.
The Park Tavern was closed Monday. On social media, the restaurant and bar posted, “Following the tragic incident on our patio Sunday night, Park Tavern will be closed until further notice as we support and care for our staff and neighbors. Thank you for your understanding and kindness during this incredibly difficult time.”
The restaurant is a popular bowling and event venue. It’s existed in St. Louis Park since the 1950s.
Hennepin County Jail records show a 56-year-old man arrested by the St. Louis Park Police Department is in custody on suspicion of criminal vehicular homicide. MPR News could not reach the Hennepin County Attorney’s office for information on possible charges.
Police said they are still investigating the incident.