On Thursday, 26-year-old Richard Rojas mowed down pedestrians in New York’s Time Square with a 2009 maroon Honda Accord just before noon local time. Rojas, a resident of the Bronx, killed 18-year-old Alyssa Elsman and injured at least another 22 others. The suspect was tackled and arrested at the scene but reportedly told police he wanted death by cop.
Authorities said Rojas has a criminal record, including multiple DWI charges. Rojas blew a 0.0 after his arrest on Thursday, but was reportedly under the influence of drugs.
Just last week, Rojas was arrested after allegedly pulling a knife on a visitor to his home.
On Thursday, Rojas was charged with one count of second-degree murder, 20 counts of attempted murder-second degree and five counts of aggravated vehicular homicide.
In the video, Rojas can be seen driving southbound on 7th Avenue until about 42nd street.
Then, Rojas made a sharp U-turn and starts heading northbound on the sidewalk of 7th Ave.
People can be seen bouncing off the car as it makes its way onto the pavement.
Rojas gains speed as he continues northbound on 7th.
Frightened pedestrians begin running away as they see the maroon Honda speeding up the street.
Finally, Rojas rammed full speed into some traffic pylons making the car airborne.
Rojas can be seen jumping out of the vehicle and jumping up and down into traffic. He was eventually taken down by a few brave individuals before being taken into custody.
The below footage is graphic:
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