Date: 2013-05-17
From: Damascus (Trail Days)

To: Damascus (Trail Days)
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

Trail Days was meant to be one of the major events of our trip to the USA and an opportunity to indulge ourselves for a few days with people with a similar interest.It has been that and more but has been overshadowed by the sad events of today.Whilst the hiker parade was underway a car driven by an aged gentleman for reasons not fully determined drove into the back of the walking hikers.It appears the most likely and repeated reason is that he had a medical "incident". The full reasons I leave for time and the authorities to reveal.The result however was he hit over 50 people with his car. The vast majority received little more than a bump or knock that no doubt has left them bruised or shocked but not seriously hurt.It appears that 8 people were transported to hospital with more serious injuries.2 were taken to a major hospital (Bristol?) and the rest to a smaller, closer hospital. All but one of the two at Bristol were released within a day. I am not sure but I believe the one remaining has broken legs as the major injury.I only know the name of one affected and as it has already been released elsewhere that was Rainbow Bright. She was the girl most dramatically seen under the front of the car when it stopped. I understand her major injury is a broken toe.That more serious injuries were not widespread is amazing and to be honest, unexpected. At the time of the incident a fatality count of 2 or 3 would not have surprised me.We were extremely close to the incident.Invisible had crossed to the other side of the road and used a car wheel to retie his shoelace and I and Army Ant had drifted over that way and then continued that way as we saw our friend Red Specs standing on the side of the road filming the parade. I filmed my approach to him and brought my camera right up to his face and then stopped the video. As I was doing so the incident happened behind me. Red Specs video caught it all and he has given me a copy as we feature in it. We have both agreed not to post it online out of respect of the people involved. He has provided the Damascus police with a copy for their investigations. I am proud of the response of my fellow hikers, IM and AA and their immediate reactions. IM went straight to assist a lady with legs caught up in the front left wheel and AA was right behind him assisting in the lifting of the vehicle. I was stunned at the sight when I first saw it and a few steps behind them and stayed out as there would have been no room for me to get there and help with the number of hikers around the car.Once the situation stabilized and authorities took over we went to the Blue Blaze Cafe for a calming beer or two. On the way we stressed to many confused people and waiting motorists that the road would be closed for hours and that everyone should clear the roadway and/or seek alternative routes.We immediately sent messages to friends and loved ones to make clear we were not affected.I sincerely wish all affected a speedy recovery and hope that the event is not adversely affected in the future.I felt (and Red Specs video supports) that the response of both hikers and authorities was exemplary and all can be proud of themselves.