Downtown Boston turned into a disaster zone Tuesday when a box truck barreled down a Chinatown street, slammed into several poles, and struck multiple pedestrians. At least two people suffered critical injuries.
The crash happened just before 1 p.m. at the busy corner of Harrison Avenue and Kneeland Street. Witnesses described the sound as an explosion. First responders rushed in within minutes.
Driver Trapped After Truck Slams Into Building
As the truck tore through the street, it knocked down poles and finally crashed between a building and another structure. Firefighters arrived quickly and pulled the driver from the crushed cab.
According to the Boston Fire Department, the truck struck several objects before flipping onto its side. Paramedics rushed the driver to the hospital along with several injured pedestrians.
Streets Shut Down as Police Launch Investigation
Boston police shut down Kneeland Street between Washington and Tyler Streets. They advised drivers to avoid the area and find alternate routes. The crash caused major delays through downtown and Chinatown, one of the city’s busiest neighborhoods.
Officers said they are still piecing together what happened. When asked whether the crash looked accidental, a police spokesperson said the case remains active. He did not share more.
Emergency Crews Race to Help Victims
Paramedics treated the injured on the sidewalk as firefighters worked to clear debris. Two victims were listed in critical condition by late afternoon. Several others had less severe injuries.
Despite the chaos, first responders acted fast. They stabilized victims and quickly moved them to local hospitals. Meanwhile, police kept crowds back and maintained the perimeter around the wreckage.
Scene Looks Like a War Zone
The overturned truck lay on its side with shattered glass, bent poles, and broken pavement all around it. The yellow rental vehicle was surrounded by police tape and flashing lights.
Locals stopped and stared, stunned by the destruction. One woman, who had just left a nearby shop, said, “I heard a boom, looked up, and saw people running. It was terrifying.”
Others described screams and people trapped under debris. “You don’t expect to see something like this in the middle of the day,” a Chinatown worker said.
Witnesses Describe Pure Panic
Those who saw the crash unfold say it happened fast. The truck came around the corner at high speed. It hit a pole, bounced sideways, and flipped.
“People started screaming and scattering,” said a delivery driver nearby. “There were bodies on the ground. You could tell some were hurt badly.”
One man who tried to help a victim said he saw deep bruises and heavy bleeding. “It was awful,” he said. “But we just did what we could until help arrived.”
Cause of Crash Still Unknown
Authorities haven’t confirmed what led to the Boston Truck Crash. Investigators are checking surveillance cameras from nearby businesses. They’re also reviewing the driver’s background, the truck’s condition, and traffic light timing.
So far, there’s no word on whether drugs, alcohol, or a medical emergency may have played a role. Police say they’ll release more details once the investigation progresses.
Mayor Wu Vows Full Response
Mayor Michelle Wu addressed the situation in a brief statement Tuesday evening. She thanked first responders and promised a full investigation.
“Our city stands with the victims and their families,” she said. “We will find answers and ensure safety improvements wherever necessary.”
Officials from Boston’s Transportation Department will inspect the crash site for possible hazards. City engineers may also review whether road design played a part.
Neighborhood Demands Safer Streets
Local residents and business owners are now demanding stronger traffic controls in the area. Chinatown, known for foot traffic and tight streets, has long faced safety concerns.
“Trucks come flying through here all the time,” said a shopkeeper. “It’s just a matter of time before something like this happens.”
Activists are already calling for speed bumps, tighter delivery regulations, and more visible signage.
Not the First Downtown Truck Incident
Tuesday’s crash isn’t an isolated case. In the past year, downtown Boston has seen a rise in truck-related accidents. In one case, a cyclist was hit by a delivery van in the Seaport district.
The Boston Truck Crash now adds more pressure on city officials to act. Advocates say enforcement isn’t enough — the city needs to redesign high-risk zones before more lives are lost.
Investigation Continues, Community Waits
Police urged anyone with information or footage of the crash to come forward. So far, they haven’t filed charges. The driver’s identity remains undisclosed.
Meanwhile, two families wait for news in local hospitals. Emergency teams continue to monitor the victims’ conditions, hoping for recovery.
The community, shaken and angry, watches closely as this latest tragedy unfolds.
